The Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) has finalized the new Extended Health Benefits Policy and with it, made access to health care more equitable for NWT residents.

The Extended Health Benefits Policy gives NWT residents additional health benefits beyond those covered under the NWT Health Care Plan. The old policy did not provide equitable access to vital drug therapies and preventative services. Starting on April 1, 2024, the updated policy will ensure fair access to extended health benefits for NWT residents with low income who are not currently covered under the existing policy.

Key changes in the new Extended Health Benefits Policy include:

• Introduction of income assessment: The new policy promotes fairness and equitable access by introducing an income assessment process to determine eligibility for all benefits, except for benefits accessed by seniors.
• Removal of specified disease condition: The new policy eliminates having a specified disease condition to access benefits. This change ensures that residents can access a comprehensive suite of benefits without being restricted by the requirement of a limited number of specific medical conditions.
• A suite of benefits for all residents: The new policy offers a range of benefits, each with its own eligibility criteria and levels of coverage. This approach provides flexibility and accommodates diverse healthcare needs.

Now that the new Extended Health Benefits Policy has been finalized, the GNWT is working on a smooth implementation. This includes setting income assessment levels to provide fair and reasonable cost-sharing; establishing and communicating clear guidelines; and hiring and training implementation staff.

For more information on the new Extended Health Benefits Policy and its implementation, please visit the following resources:

• Implementing the 2024 Extended health Benefits Policy
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Extended Health Benefits Policy (2024)

The changes made to the Extended Health Benefits Policy have no impact on seniors aged 60 and older, as their current benefit levels remain unchanged. Similarly, there are no changes for residents who access the Non-Insured Health Benefits and the Métis Health Benefits.

For media requests, please contact:

Jeremy Bird

Manager, Communications

Health and Social Services

Government of the Northwest Territories

Jeremy_Bird@gov.nt.ca 

(867) 767-9052 ext. 49034