Update on the Health Authority

We're reassessing the transition to a health authority to ensure the right approach is taken to strengthen Yukon’s health system. 

Shäw Kwä’ą / Health and Wellness Yukon / Santé et mieux-être Yukon

In collaboration with Yukon First Nations and health partners, we're establishing a health authority for the Yukon. To show the link between health and total wellbeing, the health authority is called:

  • “Shäw Kwä’ą” in Southern Tutchone;
  • “Health and Wellness Yukon” in English; and
  • “Santé et mieux-être Yukon” in French.

Over the next few years, we'll continue to engage with Yukoners to create an equitable health system that respects everyone's voices and needs.

How did we get here?
Where are we now?
The future of health in the Yukon

What's a health authority?

A health authority delivers day-to-day health services and many social services. By joining health services across the territory, Shäw Kwä’ą / Health and Wellness Yukon / Santé et mieux-être Yukon will unify your care.

The health authority will break down the silos Yukoners face in our current system by integrating services that put client needs at the core.

Some of the benefits of a health authority

A better connection to the community

Shäw Kwä’ą / Health and Wellness Yukon / Santé et mieux-être Yukon, will engage often with the public.

Focus on efficiency and outcomes

The health authority will adopt a comprehensive system-wide perspective, enabling us to:

  • plan better;
  • be more efficient; and
  • innovate in our health care delivery methods.

How did we get here?

Creating a health authority takes many years. Here's the timeline: 

2019–20 – comprehensive review of Yukon’s health and social programs and services

2020 – Putting People First report published. The report outlines 76 recommendations providing the roadmap for health transformation.

2021 – the initial health and social services system transformation project team created

2022 – Health System Transformation team in place

2023 – Chiefs Committee on Health and Health Transformation Advisory Committee was established

2024 – Legislation for the creation of Shäw Kwä’ą / Health and Wellness Yukon / Santé et mieux-être Yukon

Where are we now?

The work to establish the health authority has started. This work will span several years and include continued collaboration with:

  • partners;
  • interest groups;
  • health professionals;
  • communities;
  • unions; and
  • employees.

The future of health in the Yukon

We aim to build a system that's inclusive, cooperative and promotes equality. A system that:

  • is culturally respectful, anti-racist, accessible and well-coordinated;
  • creates a supportive work environment that ensures both ample staffing and a healthy work-life balance;
  • actively involves communities and individuals with firsthand experiences;
  • enhances community wellbeing through collaborative efforts; and
  • prioritizes efficiency and making the most of resources.