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Attawapiskat Hospital, operated by the Weeneebayko Area Health Authority (WAHA), is a 15-bed community hospital serving Attawapiskat First Nation and surrounding James Bay coastal communities with around-the-clock emergency and urgent care. The emergency department is staffed by registered nurses and consulting physicians and provides primary care, diagnostic imaging, laboratory services, and access to specialist care through the Ontario Telemedicine Network. Patients with complex or life-threatening conditions beyond the hospital's capacity are transferred to Weeneebayko General Hospital in Moose Factory, Timmins and District Hospital, or Kingston General Hospital.
Services & Specialties
24/7 emergency and urgent care, Primary and acute care, Diagnostic imaging (emergency, inpatient, and outpatient), Laboratory services (Mon–Fri, 8am–4pm; referral required), Ontario Telemedicine Network (OTN) specialist consultations, Maternity care (normal and complicated pregnancies), Diabetes clinic, Hypertension clinic, Prenatal clinic, Well Women clinic, Community mental health services, Prescription of medication, Mobility device access (e.g., crutches), Respite services, On-site dental clinic, Nurse practitioner on site, Monthly family medicine physician clinics, OHIP-covered services, Services in English and Cree.
For life-threatening emergencies or ambulance service, call 705-997-1111 directly — do not rely solely on the main hospital line in a crisis.
Specialist care is available remotely through the Ontario Telemedicine Network, so ask about OTN consultations if you require specialist assessment without travelling.
If your condition requires advanced care, be prepared for a possible transfer to Weeneebayko General Hospital (Moose Factory), Timmins and District Hospital, or Kingston General Hospital — plan accordingly if flying is required.
Laboratory services require a medical referral and are available Monday to Friday, 8am–4pm only; plan non-urgent lab work during weekday hours.
A First Nation Health Clinic is located directly across the street from the hospital and may be able to assist with primary care needs, potentially reducing ER wait times for non-emergency concerns.
If travelling to the community specifically for care, confirm flight availability in advance — Attawapiskat is fly-in only year-round, with a seasonal ice road as an additional option in winter.
What to Bring
Ontario health card (OHIP card)
Government-issued photo ID
List of current medications and dosages
Any relevant medical records, test results, or referral letters
Emergency contact information
Personal comfort items (book, charger, snacks) as amenities are limited
Warm clothing, especially in winter given the remote northern climate
Cash or debit card for any non-OHIP-covered services or travel expenses
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the address and phone number for Attawapiskat Hospital?
The hospital is located at 972 Riverside Rd E, Attawapiskat, ON P0L 1A0. The main phone number is 705-997-2150. For emergencies or ambulance, call 705-997-1111.
How do I get to Attawapiskat Hospital if I am travelling from outside the community?
Attawapiskat First Nation has no public road access. The community is accessible by air year-round through charter and scheduled flights, and by a seasonal winter ice road. Plan travel arrangements well in advance, particularly for medical appointments.
Does Attawapiskat Hospital offer specialist care on site?
Full-time on-site specialists are not available; however, the hospital provides access to specialist consultations through the Ontario Telemedicine Network (OTN) via videoconferencing and tele-diagnostic equipment. Physician clinics are held on a monthly basis, and a nurse practitioner is on site regularly. Cases requiring advanced specialty care are transferred to Weeneebayko General Hospital, Timmins and District Hospital, or Kingston General Hospital.
Are services available in Cree at Attawapiskat Hospital?
Yes. The hospital provides services in both English and Cree, reflecting the predominantly Cree community it serves along the James Bay coast.
Does the hospital provide maternity and prenatal care?
Yes. Attawapiskat Hospital is known for maternity services, including care for both normal and complicated pregnancies. A Prenatal clinic and Well Women clinic are also offered on site.
Who operates Attawapiskat Hospital and what communities does it serve?
The hospital is operated by the Weeneebayko Area Health Authority (WAHA), which provides health services to six communities along the James Bay and Hudson Bay coasts: Attawapiskat, Moose Factory, Fort Albany, Moosonee, Kashechewan, and Peawanuck. WAHA was established in October 2010 through a merger of Weeneebayko Health Ahtuskaywin and James Bay General Hospital.