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- calendar_today November 3, 2026
Yukon Reports Significant Drop in Primary Care Waitlist
The Yukon government has announced a substantial reduction in the territory’s primary care waitlist, which decreased by 60 per cent between January and September 2026. The waitlist fell from 4,606 individuals in January to 1,827 by September.
Patient Matching and Updating Records Key to Reduction
According to a recent government news release, many Yukoners have been removed from the waitlist after being matched with doctors or nurse practitioners. Health officials also reached out to people who remained on the list to confirm whether they still required a primary care provider.
Data Reveals Specific Reasons for Removal
Though the government release did not specify all reasons for removal, additional details obtained by CBC News under access-to-information laws clarify that three patients were taken off the list after they passed away, and nearly 400 were removed because they left the territory.
Minister Cites Recruitment and Innovative Initiatives
Health Minister Brad Cathers attributed the reduction to a combination of ongoing patient matching efforts and new recruitment initiatives. Twelve new doctors have been brought to Yukon this year, and nurse practitioners have been placed not only in conventional clinics but also in unconventional settings like the Yukon Spa in Dawson City. Additionally, Cathers highlighted direct matching of patients to professionals through programs such as the longitudinal family medicine initiative.
Ongoing Efforts for Health Care Access
Despite the progress, as of September, 1,827 people remain on the primary care waitlist. The Yukon government says it continues to focus on recruiting health care professionals and introducing new ways to connect residents with primary care providers.
About the Reporter
This report was prepared by Dana Hatherly of CBC Yukon, with files from Chris Windeyer.
Source: cbc.ca.
