Full Report

Message
The Northwest Territories (NWT) has one of the highest burden
of diseases in Canada and improving this situation presents a
significant challenge for all residents and care providers. The
NWT Chronic Disease Management Evaluation Report – Making
the case for change provides the framework for improving
population health and wellness across the Territory through
reducing the incidence and impact of chronic conditions on
our communities.
Building on our achievements and impact on health
outcomes, we will continue to aim for the provision of
highest quality care for people with chronic conditions,
and expand our current services, placing more emphasis
on primary and secondary prevention. The strategic
nature of this document has a strong focus on the
management of chronic diseases across the continuum
of care and emphasizes the need for a more proactive
approach. Never before has there been a greater need
to empower individuals and the community through
an understanding of what causes ill health and what
can prevent it. There is not only a need to change
lifestyle habits and behaviors to enhance wellness,
but to create systems and environments that support
healthy behaviors.
Historically, our health system has mainly focused on
detecting, diagnosing and treating health problems.
As we move forward, we will place greater emphasis
on building and consolidating effective partnerships
among individuals, families and communities and their
local health and social services.
and management of chronic conditions as a
system priority. We will achieve this through the
implementation of best practices and evidenced
based interventions that target common risk factors,
important emerging health challenges, and the
social determinants of health.
I would like to thank all those involved in the design,
implementation and evaluation phases of this project
for their contribution and efforts, and I urge you all
to remain engaged and committed to improving the
health outcomes of NWT residents.
Sincerely,
Debbie DeLancey
Deputy Minister of Health and Social Services
Government of Northwest Territories
The Department of Health and Social Services (DHSS)
will work towards incorporating the lessons learned
and recommendations into a NWT Chronic Disease
Management Strategy that identifies the prevention