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Health & Wellness

Health Considerations - North of 60

There is limited access to medical and dental facilities and there are a number of health conditions that cannot be properly addressed in these locations.  

Please ensure that a proper screening is performed on both yourself and your family – it will help avoid unnecessary complications during your posting to JTFN. More about screening here. 

Dependent Health Care Coverage

There are no premiums required to receive NWT health care.  There is no 90 day wait period for military families to apply for health care coverage (note: this is a verbal agreement with the GNWT and Military Family Services), you should apply for your card as soon as you get here.  Your previous health care plan covers you until your NWT plan comes into effect.   Be sure to check the expiry date of your previous health care plan prior to relocating to the North. Note: our friendly staff are more than happy to review your application prior to your sending it off.

For information and downloadable application forms, go to this website: https://www.hss.gov.nt.ca/en/services/applying-health-care

When completing the application form, do not put the military member’s name under “other family members”. What they want is “other family members who are eligible for NWT Health Care coverage”. Do note, anywhere on the form, that you are part of a military family and note the military members name. 

TIP:

  • Although not required on the Health Care application form to supply a copy of your marriage certificate it has been noted that several family members have experienced delays with the application process.  You may want to be proactive and provide a copy of your marriage certificate with the application form.  

NWT Health Card Application

As military family members you are exempt from having to wait the 90 period to complete your Health Card Application.  Simply write the military member's name and state that they are military somewhere, not in the dependent section, on the form. If you would like assistance filling out your HealthCard application, please drop by the MFRC or call 867-873-0700 ext 766-6859 and we will be happy to help!

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)

This is a real thing in the north, not just during the long winter months but can also be experienced during the long summer days. Most people do not experience SAD however for those who do there are steps you can take to help diminish the effects. Keep an eye on the MFRC newsletter for information on SAD or talk to the MFRC staff for tips and tricks that may work for you. Also, the MFRC has a number of SAD lamps you can borrow throughout the winter months. For more information stop by for a visit or contact us at mlc.nof60@cfmws.com or 867-873-0700 ext. 766-6845.

Health Care FAQ

  • Will my family have access to health care?
    Yes, you will have access to health care. There may be limitations due to staff shortages or availability of specialists. 
  • Are all medical services offered in Yellowknife?
    No, some consultations, tests, procedures and surgeries cannot be completed in Yellowknife. Clients are sent South, usually to Edmonton, on medical travel.

    Some specialists come to Yellowknife on a scheduled basis and some specialist appointments are not held in Yellowknife at all.

    Prior to a move, it is suggested to have your current family doctor speak with a Yellowknife health professional to ensure that your health care needs can be met locally. 
  • Is there a wait list to secure a family doctor?
    Due to a recent change to how health care is delivered, you will not be assigned a family doctor however you will be assigned to an integrated health care team.

    This health care team consists of Program Assistants, Physicians, Nurse Practitioners (NPs), Community Health Nurses (CHNs), Registered Nurses (RNs), Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) and Holistic Wellness Advisors (HCWs).
  • Can I still access health care services without being assigned a family doctor?
    Yes, you can access health care services through booking clinic appointments, booking same day appointments or attending one of the walk-in clinics. 
  • What is the availability/accessibility for walk-in medical clinics?
    There are a few “walk-in” day and evening medical clinics that are easily accessible for families. Wait times to see a doctor during walk-in clinic hours are relatively minimal and overall feedback of care is positive.

    Assistance in determining if you should go to the emergency room or book an appointment is available by calling 8-1-1 where you’ll be able to speak to a health professional. 

    Additional information on Yellowknife health care and clinics
  • Are there other resources available for non-emergency, after hours care, or when I can’t get in to see a doctor?
    Yes! Military families can access the MAPLE app and receive a consultation with a live doctor for no cost. All you need is to download the app on your mobile device or tablet and have a CFOne number for each dependent.

    You can get medical advice, prescriptions (new or refills) and lab/imaging requisitions. This service is available via text, phone or video. The consult is relatively quick and if you require a prescription, it will be transmitted within minutes of your consult to a pharmacy of your choice.

    Click here for more information
  • Is there financial assistance for medical travel?
    Yes, if you need to see a specialist or need a specific appointment or procedure that is not available in Yellowknife.

    If you require ongoing or frequent medical appointments or services you should talk with your current doctor and investigate the level/availability of care in Yellowknife. If you have ongoing medical care, for chronic conditions, outside of Yellowknife financial support may be declined. 

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