In a surprise move, the Yukon government will open its new walk-in clinic on Monday.

The temporary location will be 9010 Quartz Rd., across from the Walmart store.

The clinic was part of the Confidence and Supply Agreement (CASA) between the Liberals and the NDP that was struck last January.

The clinic was scheduled to open by the end of January 2024 or it would have been in danger of violating the CASA.

The medical clinic will provide accessible and essential non-urgent health care services.

The clinic will be relocated in the new year to a permanent site at Mah’s Point, on Second Avenue at Jarvis Street.

“The clinic will begin operating with a physician, nurse and other essential health care professionals,” stated a news release issued today.

There had been some question as to whether the clinic would be able to open with any doctors.

It will be open Mondays through Wednesdays, from 9 a.m. to noon and 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

“It’s designed to provide same-day treatment for minor illnesses and injuries, necessary medical procedures, as well as referrals and prescriptions for non-narcotic medications for Yukoners without a dedicated primary care provider,” the release stated.

“The Whitehorse Walk-In Medical Clinic is designed to prevent delays, encourage people to seek necessary medical treatment and reduce pressure on the Whitehorse General Hospital Emergency Department.

The clinic will not provide emergency services, long-term care, specialist consultations on-site, major surgical procedures, advanced diagnostics or maternity and childbirth services.

To help manage patient traffic as the clinic opens, Yukoners should call 471-0035 or email whitehorsewalkin@yukon.ca to check wait times and book a same-day appointment.

“The opening of the Whitehorse Walk-In Medical Clinic marks a pivotal moment in our commitment to strengthening health care accessibility in the Yukon,” said Health and Social Services Minister Tracy-Anne McPhee.

NDP MLA Annie Blake, her party’s Health and Social Services critic, said, “I’m excited to see another CASA commitment making life better for Yukoners.

“Opening a walk-in clinic will bring down barriers for Yukoners who currently struggle to access health care when and where they need it,” Blake said. It will begin operating with a physician, nurse practitioner and other essential health care professionals, “ensuring a comprehensive approach to patient care,” the release said.

“Other positions may be added after analysis of the common needs presented at the facility.”

The facility will close from Dec. 25 to Jan. 1, re-opening Jan. 2.