NWT Health Care Plan

What Northwest Territories’s plan covers, who’s eligible and how to contact it.

Who’s covered

Who the plan covers.

The Northwest Territories Health Care Plan covers all residents of the Northwest Territories. It provides essential healthcare services, including physician visits and hospital care. Residents must be registered for coverage. Registered First Nations and recognized Inuit residents are covered for prescription drugs, dental and vision care through the federal Non-Insured Health Benefits program.

Are you eligible?

To qualify for the Northwest Territories Health Care Plan, you must be a resident of the territory and maintain residency for at least 6 months each year. Certain exceptions apply.

Check your eligibility (opens the Northwest Territories government website)

What’s covered

What’s covered.

Coverage details for the Northwest Territories territorial health care plan.

Coverage by category

HospitalCoveredStandard ward room

The Northwest Territories Health Care Plan covers standard hospital services, including accommodations in ward rooms and necessary medical treatments. Private or semi-private rooms may be available at an additional cost.

Prescription drugsLimitedSeniors and some conditions

The Northwest Territories Health Care Plan provides coverage for prescription drugs for eligible residents, including seniors and those with specific medical conditions. Drug coverage details and copayment requirements may vary based on eligibility criteria and specific health needs. Non-Indigenous and Métis residents aged 60 and older are covered for eligible prescription drugs through the Extended Health Benefits Seniors’ Program.

VisionLimitedSeniors 60 and over

Routine eye exams and vision care are not typically covered under the Northwest Territories Health Care Plan. Non-Indigenous and Métis residents aged 60 and older are covered for vision care, including eyewear, through the Extended Health Benefits Seniors’ Program; other residents may need to rely on private insurance.

DentalLimitedSeniors 60 and over

Dental services in the Northwest Territories are not typically covered under the territorial health care plan. Most residents are responsible for their dental care costs, but non-Indigenous and Métis residents aged 60 and older are covered for eligible dental services through the Extended Health Benefits Seniors’ Program.

The federal Canadian Dental Care Plan (opens the Government of Canada website) also helps pay for dental care for residents who don’t have dental insurance and whose family income is below a set limit.

ParamedicalNot covered

The Northwest Territories Health Care Plan does not cover paramedical services such as chiropractic care, acupuncture, massage therapy, or naturopathy. Residents must explore private insurance options or pay for these services themselves.

Hearing aids and medical suppliesLimitedSupplies based on need; no hearing aids

The Northwest Territories Health Care Plan does not typically cover hearing aids; residents may need to explore private insurance or specific government-funded programs to help with the cost of hearing devices. The plan provides coverage for certain medical supplies based on assessed need, and eligible residents may receive help with the cost of devices and supplies that support daily functioning and health management. Non-Indigenous and Métis residents aged 60 and older are also covered for medical supplies and equipment through the Extended Health Benefits Seniors’ Program.

AmbulanceNot covered

Ambulance services in the Northwest Territories are not covered under the territorial health care plan. Residents are generally responsible for the full cost of ambulance services, though some exceptions may apply based on individual circumstances or supplementary insurance.

Personal health insurance

Nursing and home careLimitedBased on an assessment

The Northwest Territories Health Care Plan provides home care services based on individual needs, offering support for nursing, personal care, and rehabilitation. Coverage is dependent on a needs assessment, ensuring that care can be delivered in a home environment when possible.

Out of countryLimitedEmergencies, up to territorial rates

The Northwest Territories Health Care Plan provides limited coverage for emergency medical services outside of Canada. Hospital care and physician services are reimbursed based on territorial rates, and residents are responsible for any costs above these amounts.

Emergency travel medical insurance

Accidental death and dismembermentNot covered

The Northwest Territories Health Care Plan does not provide coverage for accidental death and dismemberment. Residents will need to explore private insurance options to cover these events.

Last reviewed October 2026

The information provided on this page is intended for general informational purposes only and may be subject to change. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, provincial and territorial health coverage details can vary and are regularly updated. We recommend contacting your provincial or territorial plan or consulting a legal, tax, or insurance advisor for advice tailored to your specific situation.

Beyond your provincial plan

Where private coverage fills the gaps.

Three layers of coverage

Everyone who lives hereYour provincial or territorial planHospital care and doctor visits, at no cost when you receive them.
If your employer offers a planWorkplace benefitsPrescriptions, dental, vision and paramedical care, where your employer offers them.Employee group benefits
If you buy your ownPersonal health and dental insuranceThe same gaps, if you don’t have workplace coverage or when you leave it.Health and dental insurance

A general guide. What each plan covers varies by province or territory.

Bridge the gaps in coverage
Provincial health plans often leave gaps, such as prescription drugs, dental visits and vision care. Personal health insurance can cover expenses your government plan doesn’t, so you’re not left with unexpected out-of-pocket costs.
Plan for the long term
Personal health insurance can help you avoid paying high costs for treatment or services later. Taking a proactive approach helps you get the care you need now, and avoid bigger bills later on.

Personal health and dental insurance