The Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) is advising residents that applications are now open for the Extended Health Benefits benefit year that starts on September 1, 2026.

This applies to residents who have a valid NWT health care card and do not have benefits from another program, employer, or private insurance provider. Seniors 60 and older who are already enrolled in Extended Health Benefits do not need to reapply. Residents eligible for Non-Insured Health Benefits or Métis Health Benefits are also not impacted.

Beginning on September 1, 2026 medical travel benefits will be administered under Extended Health Benefits. Supports will stay the same but impacted residents must apply to Extended Health Benefits before they can access medical travel. This update changes how benefits are administered, streamlining the process for residents.

Applying early for Extended Health Benefits will help prevent delays if care outside their home community is needed after September 1.

For more information and to apply for Extended Health Benefits, please visit https://www.hss.gov.nt.ca/en/services/applyingrenewing-extended-health-benefits. 

For media requests, please contact:
Andrew Wind
Manager, Communications
Health and Social Services
Government of the Northwest Territories
HSSmedia@gov.nt.ca