Friday, April 24, 2026
The Yukon government announced it is increasing funding for the Yukon Hospital Corporation in 2026–27 to address cost pressures and increased patient volume, and support ongoing infrastructure planning, including $4.1 million to advance planning for the expansion of Whitehorse General Hospital.
Budget 2026 includes $151.2 million in operation and maintenance funding for Yukon Hospital Corporation, an increase of $15.8 million over 2025–26.
The Whitehorse General Hospital expansion project aims to address current and projected capacity pressures, including increasing demand for surgical services, inpatient beds and intensive care. The budget also includes $200,000, allocated to the Department of Health and Social Services, to support planning work led by the Yukon Hospital Corporation on an internal medicine program for Whitehorse General Hospital.
“This funding increase for Yukon Hospitals is needed to support hospital services while responding to rising demand and cost pressures. We are also moving forward with the long-delayed Whitehorse General Hospital expansion project, which is needed to expand surgical capacity, add patient beds, meet future intensive care unit needs and upgrade the hospital to meet current and future needs,” said Minister of Health and Social Services Brad Cathers.
“Yukon Hospitals want to acknowledge the Government of Yukon’s support and shared commitment to the health of all Yukoners by prioritizing health services, supporting longer term initiatives such as Whitehorse General Hospital expansion and partnering to ensure the territory remains responsive as health needs evolve.
“In addition to an escalation to base annual operating funding, this year’s budget allows the hospitals to have more senior nursing resources on the frontline, dedicated security support within the Fireweed Mental Health Unit, and an additional service day and support for rising chemotherapy costs within our cancer care service. Our team is committed to working with government to maintain open communication in order to respond to in-year financial pressures,” said Pamela Hine, chair of Yukon Hospital Corporation Board of Trustees.
Featured image: (Yukon Hospital Corporation)
