health

The Aleutian Pribilof Islands Association (APIA) has started a six-week intensive program for men focused on maintaining a healthy, substance-free lifestyle in Unalaska.

Clinician Delta Bedard is leading the workshop. She said it'll cover 12 topics, including communication, stress management, conflict resolution, and setting healthy boundaries.

"A lot of times with addiction, people live life by default," said Bedard. "They respond to one crisis after another, especially when they're in the throes of addiction. This is going to teach them how to live life with intent."

LifeMed Alaska now provides year round medevac service to the Aleutians.

Previously the air ambulance service operated a seasonal base in Unalaska during commercial fishing seasons and openings.

CEO Russell Edwards said in a statement "given the fact that Dutch Harbor is farther from Anchorage than Chicago is from New York City, decreasing response times during medical emergencies is crucial for patients through the Aleutians and surrounding areas."

Thanks to an emergency loan, Unalaska's clinic won't have to shut its doors in May.

Last week, the City Council voted unanimously to lend $500,000 to Iliuliuk Family and Health Services, which requested help after projecting its ninth deficit in 10 years.