Healthcare and Cultural Engagement in Great Whale

Between January 29 and February 2, 2024, Dr. Michelle Kwok visited the twin towns of Whapmagoostui and Kuujjuarapik (collectively referred to as Great Whale) on the west side of Hudson Bay, Nunavik. This trip, the second to the region, involved collaboration with local healthcare teams to deliver much-needed specialized care. The communities of Whapmagoostui (the northernmost Cree community) and Kuujjuarapik (the southernmost Inuit community) are unique in that they are the only areas in Nunavik where both Inuit and Cree peoples live side by side, sharing a rich cultural history.

Access to these remote communities is limited to air travel, with sea access available only during the warmer months. The region’s isolation presents challenges in providing healthcare, making the role of healthcare professionals in these communities essential. Despite these challenges, the communities in Great Whale have demonstrated remarkable resilience, and the healthcare teams are committed to providing quality care.

Healthcare Delivery in Great Whale

During this visit, Dr. Kwok worked with a dedicated team to assess and treat patients, primarily children, including new consultations and follow-up cases from previous visits in 2023. The consultations included comprehensive evaluations, skin testing, drug challenges, and drug allergy de-labeling. These procedures are essential in ensuring that patients are not unnecessarily restricted from receiving the medications they need.

The team in Great Whale, including Lysanne Adams, the head nurse, demonstrated exceptional preparedness and dedication. Lysanne was instrumental in ensuring the clinic's conference room was set up with all necessary supplies, allowing the clinic to run smoothly despite the rapid changes in patient volume. The ability to adapt quickly and meet the healthcare needs of the community is a key component of the clinic’s success.

Cultural Landmarks in Great Whale

The community is home to notable cultural landmarks, such as the Inukshuk, which provides a stunning view of Hudson Bay and serves as a symbol of guidance and connection to the land. Another significant site is St. Edmond’s Anglican Church, originally built in the 1880s using materials shipped from England and transported by dog sled. The church, a testament to the collaboration between Inuit and Cree communities, now houses a historical museum that preserves cultural artifacts and tells the story of the region's history.

Looking Ahead: Strengthening Healthcare Access

This visit to Great Whale reinforced the ongoing need for specialized healthcare services in remote Indigenous communities. Connexion Nordique continues to play a critical role in improving access to allergy care through telemedicine and in-person consultations, ensuring that the people of Nunavik receive the care they need without the burden of travel. As the project progresses, Dr. Kwok and the Connexion Nordique team look forward to further strengthening relationships with local healthcare workers and communities, ensuring that access to healthcare remains a priority and continues to improve in the region.

The full post on her personal blog can be read here.