Understanding Urticaria: A Specialized Webinar for Nunavik Physicians

Healthcare professionals working in Nunavik face a unique set of challenges. The remote nature of the communities, limited medical resources, and the diverse range of health cases they encounter make their work both demanding and rewarding. Medical staff—doctors, nurses, and support teams—often live temporarily in hospital-provided accommodations as they serve the 14 main communities located along Ungava Bay and Hudson Bay. These communities are supported by a network of 12 CLSCs (local clinics) and one hospital on each coast. As of 2021, the population in these areas was approximately 6,128 along Ungava Bay and 7,917 along Hudson Bay.

Despite the isolation, these dedicated healthcare teams provide essential care, managing everything from routine healthcare needs to high-pressure emergency situations like motor vehicle accidents. However, the limitations of remote care are apparent. Physicians and nurses are responsible for the health of entire villages, often coordinating medical evacuations (medevacs) to regional hospitals or even larger urban centers such as Montréal when necessary.

Stuck in the snow and not going anywhere...including the airport

Finally taking a flight from Kuujjuaq to Kangirsuk after multiple cancellations and rebookings.

CLSC Kangirsuk

A Glimpse of Daily Life

After several canceled flights and rebookings, the journey from Kuujjuaq to Kangirsuk can feel like an adventure in itself—getting stuck in the snow, waiting, and navigating the challenges of travel is part of the experience for healthcare professionals working in these remote areas.

CLSC Kangirsuk: Serving a Remote Community

In CLSC Kangirsuk, and similar clinics across Nunavik, healthcare professionals are expected to manage a broad spectrum of medical issues. While the team is equipped to handle many types of cases, the scope of care is limited by the resources available. Nonetheless, their commitment remains unwavering, as they adapt to the demands of their roles and work tirelessly to meet the needs of their patients.

Continued Education: A Path Forward

To ensure healthcare providers are equipped with up-to-date knowledge, Nunavik physicians and nurses participate in regular continuing education webinars. These sessions provide critical learning tailored specifically for the unique challenges of Northern healthcare. In April 2024, Connexion Nordique launched its first webinar, led by Dr. Michael Fein, focused on the treatment and management of urticaria (hives). The session was a success, and special thanks go to Dr. Arnaud Messier-Mayrand for organizing the session as an official continuing education event for family physicians in Nunavik.

Plans for additional webinars are already underway, continuing to provide vital education and support to general practitioners in the North. These efforts are crucial in ensuring that healthcare providers in remote communities remain connected to the latest practices, improving patient care in regions where every moment counts.