Innovation : GE
Carrying GE's Vivid i, a laptop-sized cardiovascular ultrasound system, cardiologists from the University of Ottawa Heart Institute travel to Canada's remote Arctic to help heal the hearts of the local Inuit population.
Above the tree line, Baffin Island straddles the Arctic Circle, part of the Nunavut territory of Canada. In Iqaluit, Nunavut’s capital, there are nearly 7,000 residents, three-quarters of which are Inuit.
It is here in Iqaluit, at the 63rd parallel, where technology has been making a difference in the lives of patients, who travel to this capital from rural villages for specialized care.
Nunavut is a huge territory, but sparsely populated. Grise Ford, the smallest village is a mere 141 people. Iqaluit, the capital, is home to nearly 7,000 residents.
Aerial view of Nunavut territory.
Since Iqaluit sits above the tree line, wood and other building materials must be shipped from elsewhere.
Town of Iqaluit.
Subsistence fishing and hunting are still very much a part of the traditional Inuit culture.
Men fishing in Iqaluit.
An Inuksuk is a man-made stone landmark. This early signage was often used to navigate through the harsh climate of the north and to aid Inuit hunters.
Image of an Inuksuk: A man-made stone landmark.
The Inuksuk, on the Nunavut flag, has become a symbol of Canada’s far north and has been adapted by the Vancouver Olympics in 2010 as part of its official logo.
Picture of the Inuksuk on the Nunavut flag.
Inuktitut is the language of the Inuit in this region of Canada’s Arctic. Inuktitut survives through storytelling and song.
Inuit women at clinic.
Packed with essential fatty acids and antioxidants, over 20 species of Arctic berries grow in the tundra.
Over 20 species of Arctic berries grow in the tundra.
No roads link Iqaluit to the rest of Canada. With the exceptions of small boat, snowmobile or dog travel, all movement between communities is by air.
Road to nowhere sign.
Traditional art and craft provide income for many residents of the Baffin region. This artist shows an unfinished carving of a Beluga whale crafted from local soapstone.
Artist shows an carving of a Beluga whale from soapstone.
A cardiology patient from Dorset shows his carving of a completed Beluga whale.
A cardiology patient shows his carving of a Beluga whale.
A traditional Inuit parka called an amauti features a large hood to carry and protect babies from harsh weather.
A traditional Inuit parka called an amauti features a large hood to carry and protect babies.The Vivid i cardiovascular ultrasound system provides high-performance, full-featured imaging in a lightweight design, making it possible for patients to receive exams almost anywhere, including in the OR, ER or for mobile imaging services.
GE Healthcare's broad range of products and services enable healthcare providers to better diagnose and treat cancer, heart disease, neurological diseases and other conditions earlier.
University of Ottawa Heart Institute is Canada's largest and foremost cardiovascular health center dedicated to understanding, treating and preventing heart disease.
University of Ottawa Heart Institute
Ottawa Health Services Network, Inc. is a non-profit organization that coordinates specialists for residents of the Baffin region of Nunavut.
