This line is not for emergencies, please dial 911 in case of emergency or go to the emergency room.
Speak with a Registered Nurse
Our registered nurses are available 24/7 to provide you with confidential advice and support. Call us at 811 to speak with a registered nurse and get guidance related to your current health situation, mental wellness and addiction recovery, or for help to quit smoking or vaping. You can also use the same three-digit line to get in touch with poison control if you need.
Health Advice Line
Our registered nurses are available 24/7 to provide you with confidential health advice and support. Call us at 811 or 1-844-259-1793 to speak with a registered nurse and get guidance on a range of health concerns, from general health queries to non-urgent health issues.
How We Assist
811 nurses assess your current health situation, provide advice, and direct you to the appropriate resources in your region. We can help with a wide range of issues, such as advice on communicable diseases, sexually transmitted infections, and other health-related inquiries. Your privacy is our priority, and our services are available in multiple languages including Indigenous Languages.
NWT Helpline
811 Helpline responders are registered nurses who can also assist you with concerns related to mental wellness and addictions recovery. Our nurses are trained in a variety of areas, including stress management, suicidal thoughts, abuse, sexual assault, depression, anxiety, grief, loss, and substance use. Call us at 811 or 1-844-259-1793. Our services are available in English and French, with translation services provided for all official languages of the NWT. Your comfort is important, which is why this service remains 100% free and confidential.
Additional Support and Follow-ups
Follow-up calls with 811 Helpline responders are available to provide ongoing support, answer any questions you may have, and help you stay focused on your goals. Our compassionate responders understand that fighting an addiction can be a challenging journey, and they are here to support you every step of the way.
Support to Quit Smoking or Vaping
Looking to quit smoking or vaping? Our dedicated team is here to help you on your journey to a healthier life. Call us for personalized assistance and resources to help you quit for good. Our nurses are trained to support you through your quit planning, provide follow-up calls to keep you on track and answer any questions you may have.
How We Can Help You Quit
The 811 responders will work with you to make a personalized Quit Plan, addressing your triggers and helping you make the necessary lifestyle changes. We provide ongoing support and resources to ensure you stay motivated and focused on your goals.
More Information
For more information, resources, and support on quitting tobacco, visit www.gov.nt.ca/tobacco.
On this Page
What happens when you call 811?
When you call 811 you will first hear a recorded message that will ask you to choose your preferred language. You will then be asked which service you would like to access. Once you select the appropriate service, the call will be transferred to a registered nurse who can provide health advice, mental wellness and addictions recovery support, tobacco cessation advice or poison control.
When not to call 811
- When emergency services are needed, i.e., Ambulance
- When you are looking for lab/test results
- If you want to follow up about a medical doctor’s appointment
- If you need to see a specialist
- If you want to book an appointment
How a Call is Handled
811 responders will:
- Collect certain pieces of personal health information (see collection of personal information for more information)
- Assess your needs
- Respond to your needs
- Refer you to an appropriate resource, if necessary
Collection of Personal Information
Anonymity is always an option for anyone who wishes to ask general questions or is seeking support. In some circumstances, or when seeking medical information, details about age, gender, or personal information can be helpful in giving quality health care advice by phone. Callers can share as much or as little as they wish. Remaining anonymous does not impact your ability to receive services.
Questions may include:
- Your first and last name
- Your date of birth
- Your postal code
- Sex at birth
- Preferred pronoun
- Your telephone number in case they need to call you back or the call gets disconnected
- Personal information remains confidential.
How your privacy is protected
Callers are welcome to express that they would like to be anonymous or choose to share as much information as they are comfortable with. DHSS worked closely with the Chief Health Privacy Officer to review the services provided by the contractor to ensure the safety and security of the information that will be provided to 811. Individuals can provide as much or as little information as they would like to 811.
Service Accessibility
811 services are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week in all communities within the NWT.
NWT Official Languages Services
811 offers service in English, with interpretation services available for French and NWT Indigenous languages, and over 200 languages from around the world.
People with Special Needs
Callers who are deaf, hard of hearing or speech-impaired who use American Sign Language or Langues des signs Québécoise can use the Canada Video Relay Service and call 1 (844) 259-1793, the toll-free number associated with 811, to access the service.
Feedback
If you have a complaint or concern, or would like to share your experience around 811, please email healthlinefeedback@gov.nt.ca.