The Government of Yukon in Canada has opened a new walk-in medical clinic in Whitehorse to provide accessible and essential non-urgent health care services.

The clinic, operating from a temporary location initially, will later relocate to a permanent site at Mah's Point.

With operating hours from 9am to 12pm and 1pm to 4pm on Mondays through Wednesdays, it will offer same-day treatment for minor illnesses and injuries, medical procedures, referrals, and prescriptions for non-narcotic medications.

It will not handle emergency services, long-term care, specialist consultations, major surgeries, advanced diagnostics, or maternity and childbirth services.

To manage patient traffic, individuals have to call 867-471-0035 to check wait times and book same-day appointments.

The initiative aligns with the 2020 Putting People First report, contributing to Recommendation 2.2 to connect every Yukoner with a primary care provider.

This clinic is expected to alleviate pressure on the Whitehorse General Hospital Emergency Department.

Minister of Health and Social Services Tracy-Anne McPhee said: “The opening of the Whitehorse Walk-In Medical Clinic marks a pivotal moment in our commitment to strengthening health care accessibility in the Yukon.

“This clinic is not just a new facility; it's a promise to our community to increase timely and compassionate care, especially for those who currently lack a primary health care provider.

“We are committed to adapting and responding to the health care needs of all Yukoners, helping to provide everyone with access to quality medical care when and where they need it.

“Thank you to the dedicated team and partners at Yukon Hospitals and the Yukon Medical Association who supported the development of the clinic.”

Recently, the Government of Yukon, along with the Yukon Hospital Corporation and health partners, introduced a Health Human Resources Strategy aimed at improving access to healthcare services for Yukoners.

This strategy outlines 25 actions to be implemented over the next three years, with an initial investment of C$3.3m.

The goal is to enhance and support the Yukon's health workforce, including physicians, nurses, allied health professionals, traditional healers, social workers, and support staff.