Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Emergency
services
Your Trusted Healthcare Partner in Nome, Alaska
Norton Sound Health (NSHC) is a tribally owned and operated nonprofit healthcare organization founded in 1970 to serve the Inupiat, Siberian Yupik, and Yupik people of northwestern Alaska. Governed by a 21-member board representing all communities in the 23,000-square-mile Bering Strait region, we prioritize patient-centered care through our Norton Sound Regional Hospital, 15 village clinics, and comprehensive health programs. Our team of approximately 700 employees, including board-certified physicians and mid-level providers, delivers culturally sensitive care tailored to the unique challenges of our region. We are committed to advancing Indian Self-Determination by empowering communities to take charge of their health and well-being.Our services span emergency medicine, primary care, behavioral health, dental care, and preventive programs, all supported by state-of-the-art facilities since our hospitals 2012 expansion. We emphasize wellness, environmental health, and community-driven solutions, reflecting our mission to provide quality health services while honoring the cultural diversity of our people. Through partnerships like the Tribal Community Utility Assistance Program, we extend our impact to sustainable infrastructure development. Our dedication to transparency, patient advocacy, and continuous quality improvement ensures we remain a trusted healthcare leader in rural Alaska.
Services
Emergency Medical Services
Primary Care
Dental Clinic
Behavioral Health Services
Laboratory Services
Pharmacy
Radiology
Physical Therapy
WIC Program
Village Health Services
Details
- Year established: 1970
Highlights and features
- We operate a state-of-the-art regional hospital completed in 2012 with expanded medical facilities.
- Our board-certified physicians provide culturally sensitive care tailored to rural Alaskas unique needs.
- We maintain 15 village clinics staffed with local health practitioners across the Bering Strait region.
- Our team includes specialized providers in emergency medicine, behavioral health, and maternal child health.
- We offer 24/7 emergency medical services and air ambulance support for urgent care needs.
What people say
Culturally sensitive care
24/7 emergency access
Dedicated staff
Community-focused programs
Air ambulance availability
Services
Emergency Medical Services
Our 24/7 emergency department and air ambulance provide critical care for trauma, acute illnesses, and life-threatening conditions. Board-certified physicians and specialized staff ensure rapid response and stabilization for patients across the Bering Strait region. Services include trauma care, cardiac monitoring, and emergency transport to our regional hospital.
Primary Care Clinic
We offer comprehensive primary care for all ages, including preventive screenings, chronic disease management, and routine check-ups. Our providers focus on culturally competent care that addresses the specific health needs of Alaska Native communities while maintaining national medical standards.
Behavioral Health Services
Our behavioral health team provides counseling, crisis intervention, and substance abuse treatment tailored to cultural and community contexts. Services include individual therapy, group sessions, and collaboration with traditional healers to support holistic wellness for patients and families.
Village Health Services
Fifteen village clinics staffed by Community Health Aide Practitioners deliver essential care in remote areas. Services include prenatal checkups, immunizations, minor injury treatment, and telehealth consultations with specialists in Nome, ensuring accessible care for isolated populations.
Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) Program
This federally funded program provides nutritional education, breastfeeding support, and supplemental food vouchers for low-income pregnant women, new mothers, and children under five. Our WIC team helps families achieve better health outcomes through personalized guidance and community resources.
People
Mark Peterson, MD
Hospital Service Physician
Dr. Mark Peterson is a board-certified physician providing comprehensive care in NSHC's Emergency Department and Primary Care Clinic, with expertise in rural and Arctic medicine.
Megan MacKiernan, PA
Advanced Practice Provider
Megan MacKiernan delivers primary and urgent care across NSHC facilities, focusing on patient education and preventive health strategies for Alaska Native communities.
Molly Booy, MD
Hospital Service Physician
Dr. Molly Booy specializes in maternal child health and labor delivery services, ensuring safe pregnancies and births for women in the Bering Strait region.
Richelle Genco
Assistant VHS Director
Richelle Genco oversees village health operations, coordinating care between remote clinics and regional specialists to improve access for rural communities.
Cameron Piscoyaat
Compliance Officer
Cameron Piscoyaat manages patient feedback systems and ethical compliance, ensuring NSHC maintains transparency and accountability in all healthcare operations.
Questions
What areas does NSHC serve?
NSHC serves the 23,000-square-mile Bering Strait region, including Nome and 15 rural villages like Gambell, Savoonga, and Koyuk.
How do I make an appointment?
Contact our Primary Care Clinic at 907-443-3333 or visit your local village clinic for scheduling assistance.
Does NSHC offer emergency care?
Yes, our 24/7 Emergency Department and air ambulance provide urgent care across the region.
Are traditional healing practices available?
Yes, our Tribal Healing program integrates traditional practices with modern medical care upon request.
What insurance plans are accepted?
We accept Medicaid, Medicare, and most private insurers. Financial assistance is available for eligible patients.