Public Notice
(March 12, 2025) - The Northwest Territories Health and Social Services Authority (NTHSSA) would like to provide an update to residents on efforts to enable the future reinstatement of hematology oncology services in the Northwest Territories (NWT), with the support of Alberta Health Services (AHS).
As previously announced, in April 2024, AHS informed NTHSSA that the virtual hematology oncology care model offered to residents, with AHS support, was no longer sustainable and did not meet the necessary standards of care. As a result, since May 2024, all hematology oncology patients in the NWT have been required to travel to the Cross Cancer Institute in Edmonton, Alberta, for appointments. This decision was driven by limited local resources and challenges, including sharing patient information between jurisdictions.
While this transition has caused disruption, both AHS and NTHSSA have been working together to plan for the return of hematology oncology services to the NWT, which has included securing funding to support dedicated hematology oncology physician and nursing positions. With the new funding in place, planning between jurisdictions is underway to recruit for these critical positions.
Once staffing is secured, many treatments and appointments will be available in Yellowknife, with virtual support when appropriate. However, more complex treatments may still require travel to Alberta. Both parties remain dedicated to resolving these challenges and ensuring that NWT residents can access safe, high-quality care closer to home whenever possible.
Key Updates:
- Funding secured: The NWT has successfully obtained funding to support dedicated hematology oncology physician and nursing positions.
- NTHSSA nurse hired: A registered nurse was hired in October 2024 to support hematology oncology services.
- Recruitment ongoing: Finding a hematologist oncologist has been challenging. Cancer Care Alberta (CCA) is actively recruiting for this position and has posted a dedicated role for the NWT.
- Exploring alternatives: CCA and NTHSSA continue to explore other solutions to provide ongoing care while recruitment efforts continue.
Contact Information:
For questions or assistance, patients can reach out to:
- Email: Cancer_Navigation@gov.nt.ca or Cancer_socialwork@gov.nt.ca
- Toll-Free: 1-866-313-7989 (Option 3)
The NTHSSA recognizes the challenges this transition has posed for patients and their families across the territory and remain committed to providing safe and effective care to all residents.
For media requests, please contact:
NTHSSA Communications