(Fort Smith, February 2, 2024) – The Northwest Territories Health and Social Services Authority (NTHSSA) is pleased to announce the official resumption of regular (planned) birthing services at the Fort Smith Health Centre supported by the Midwifery Service, effective February 5, 2024.

Planned birthing services in Fort Smith had been suspended in January 2023 due to an unstable midwifery staffing situation. Over the past year, the NTHSSA has continued efforts to recruit and provide orientation to midwives in the community. Recently, there has been increased capacity with 2 registered midwives now fully oriented in the community full time.

The registered midwives are available for regularly scheduled pre-and-post natal care, emergency assessment and birthing services. Existing, impacted patients have been made aware.

The NTHSSA would like to thank everyone who has been affected by this suspension for your understanding. The program capacity will continue to be monitored closely and any future updates will be provided as they become available.