NR 08-39 CUL ENG Culture and Society Report.doc

(November 21, 2008 – Cambridge Bay, Nunavut) Nunavut Tunngavik Inc. President Paul Kaludjak tabled the 2007/08 Nunavut Social Development Council annual report on the State of Inuit Culture and Society titled Nunavut’s Health System at the NTI Annual General Meeting yesterday in Cambridge Bay.

Nunavut’s Health System provides an overview of the current Inuit health condition, discusses the government and non-government roles in health care administration and delivery, and proposes the primary health care approach as a common methodology all health partners should utilize to improve Inuit health outcomes.

A well-functioning health system is a cornerstone in any successful society, said Kaludjak. Unfortunately, Inuit in Nunavut face many challenges in achieving good health, and the current health system is not sufficient enough to help Inuit overcome these challenges.

In addition to the challenges faced by individuals, the administration and delivery of health care in Nunavut is also in need of improvements. We need more health care providers and administrators, said Kaludjak. The government also needs to incorporate community-based and Inuit organizations fully into its strategic planning and administration processes.

As required by Article 32 of the NLCA, Nunavut’s Health System is also to be tabled in the Nunavut Legislative Assembly and the Federal House of Commons.

Nunavut’s Health System is available online at www.tunngavik.com.

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