Starting in September, residents with a valid NWT healthcare card but no medical travel coverage will now be covered under the Extended Health Benefits program, the GNWT says.
Previously, this was covered under the GNWT medical travel policy.
“This change is part of the GNWT’s broader effort to modernize medical travel and make the system clearer, more consistent, and easier for both residents and health care providers to understand,” the GNWT said in a Monday news release.
While what is covered will remain the same, the GWNT said those affected by the change must apply for Extended Health Benefits to access coverage after September 1, when the change comes into effect.
The GNWT said residents are eligible for medical travel coverage under Extended Health Benefits if they do not have coverage through the Non-Insured Health Benefits program, the Métis Health Benefits program, an employer plan or private insurance.
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Applications for 2026-27 open on June 15.
The GNWT said this change is part of a first phase of work to improve the medical travel system in the NWT.
In its news release, the territory said phase two will look at longer-term improvements “including possible changes to benefits and expanded coverage.”
