Newtok

Newtok is a small village located in the Bethel Census Area of Alaska, United States. It is known for its unique health challenges and medical practices due to its remote location and traditional Yup'ik Eskimo lifestyle.

Geography

Newtok is situated on the west coast of Alaska, near the Bering Sea. The village is located at the mouth of the Newtok River, making it susceptible to climate change and coastal erosion.

Healthcare in Newtok

Healthcare in Newtok is primarily provided by the Yukon-Kuskokwim Health Corporation (YKHC), a Tribal Organization that administers a comprehensive healthcare delivery system for 58 rural communities in southwest Alaska. The village is served by a primary care clinic, the Newtok Village Clinic, which is staffed by community health practitioners who are trained to provide medical care for common illnesses and injuries.

Health Challenges

Due to its remote location and unique lifestyle, Newtok faces several health challenges. These include high rates of respiratory diseases, largely due to the traditional practice of indoor smoking, and infectious diseases, such as tuberculosis, which spreads easily in the close-knit community.

Climate Change and Health

Climate change poses a significant threat to the health and wellbeing of Newtok residents. Rising temperatures and coastal erosion are leading to the loss of hunting and fishing grounds, impacting the community's food security and traditional lifestyle. This has led to increased rates of mental health issues, including depression and anxiety.

Relocation

In response to the threat of climate change, the village of Newtok is undergoing a relocation process to safer grounds, a move that is expected to have significant implications for the community's health and wellbeing. The new location, Mertarvik, is located on higher ground, reducing the risk of flooding and other climate-related hazards.

See Also

• Climate change in Alaska
• Healthcare in Alaska
• Yukon-Kuskokwim Health Corporation

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