NTHSSA French Language Services

French Language Services are offered across the NTHSSA and ensure that French-speaking clients have access to health and social services in their preferred language, ensuring they are able to make informed decisions regarding their care and well-being.

The NTHSSA is committed to raising awareness of French Language Services to improve access to healthcare services, enhance the efficiency of care, and increase client satisfaction across the organization.

What does the French Language Communications and Services (FLCS) Team offer?

  • Help clients navigate through healthcare and social services system, including access to programs and services.
  • Provide interpretation as required during appointments, or in accessing programs and services.
  • Ensure that material that is written for the public is available in English and French.
  • Train staff so they understand how to offer services in both languages.
  • Establish collaboration and partnerships with the Francophone community on projects and initiatives.
  • Support a public feedback process, including responding to concerns and   taking corrective actions in areas where it is deemed necessary.

Background:

Language and culture enrich the very fabric of our northern society. With 11 official languages, NWT residents take great pride in the vibrant languages and cultures found across the territory. French is an official language in the Northwest Territories and the Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) recognizes the Francophone community as an important component of the NWT society, and a contributor to its social, economic, and cultural development.

In the health care sector, communicating effectively with the people we serve is important. In many cases, it can be critical. Current evidence indicates that language barriers affect almost every aspect of health:

  • Delayed presentation for care;
  • Barriers to initial access for most health services;
  • Increased risks of misdiagnosis;
  • Poorer patient understanding of and adherence to prescribed treatment; Lower patient satisfaction;
  • Poorer management of chronic disease; Failure to obtain informed consent, and more.

Contact:

Yellowknife Region: 867-444-1380

Stanton Territorial Hospital: 867-767-9300 ext. 40155 / 867-765-8029

Fort Smith & Inuvik Region: 867-872-6271

Hay River Region: 867-874-8111

NTHSSA Territorial:  867-767-9107 ext. 40154

Request for French Interpretation Services online:

 

Have you requested or accessed Government of the Northwest Territories services in French? Tell us about your experience. We want your feedback.

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