There is no Future Healthcare without Workers

The recent CBC article, “Third of recommendations in Putting People First report complete,” offers a glimpse into the progress of Yukon’s new Health Authority. While the government highlights its advancements, a crucial voice is often muted in these discussions: that of the dedicated healthcare workers who form the backbone of our system. From the front lines, the narrative surrounding the new Health Authority is far from a clear success story; it’s a tale of uncertainty, frustration, and a growing sense of disenfranchisement.

For many healthcare professionals in Yukon, the establishment of the new Health Authority, Shäw Kwä’ą / Health and Wellness Yukon, is fraught with anxiety. Whispers of losing hard-earned pensions echo through hospital hallways and units, creating a profound sense of instability for those who have committed their careers to serving Yukoners. Despite assurances, concrete details about how existing pension plans, seniority, service changes or differences of benefits between employers (including those from the Yukon Government and Yukon Hospital Corporation) will be integrated remain elusive, leaving vital questions about their retirement and job security unanswered. This lack of clear communication and engagement with the workforce is not just an oversight; it’s a significant blow to morale.

This uncertainty comes at a time when Yukon’s healthcare system is already reeling from extreme staff shortages and widespread burnout. Yukon Federation of Labour President Teresa Acheson says, “Our nurses, doctors, paramedics, and support staff are stretched thin, working tirelessly under immense pressure. Many have already disengaged, feeling unheard and undervalued.” The Yukon Federation of Labour is increasingly hearing a disheartening sentiment: “healthcare is not a good field to go into…the environment in hospitals is very hard, toxic, and unsustainable...I’m never going back… I would never recommend anyone to work there.” This isn’t just anecdotal; it’s a symptom of a systemic problem where the very people delivering care feel mistreated and disrespected by the leadership and government charged with overseeing our healthcare systems.

Beyond the pressing issues of pay, benefits and uncertainty about employment status, the “cone of silence” is creating a profound sense of disengagement, lack of support, and a feeling that workers’ expertise and experiences are being ignored in decision-making processes. Many dedicated individuals, exhausted from years of demanding work, are questioning whether the current environment is sustainable for their careers or their well-being and choosing other paths.

The public, by and large, holds immense respect for healthcare workers. Yet, there’s a growing chasm between this public appreciation and the perceived internal disregard for these professionals. The frustration stems from a sense that decisions are being made for them, rather than with them combined with intense pressure and fear for speaking out. True progress in healthcare transformation can only happen when the invaluable insights and experiences of those on the ground are genuinely welcomed and integrated into the planning and implementation process.

The “Putting People First” report emphasized the need for a person-centered system. However, this focus must extend beyond just patients to include the people who provide that care. A healthy healthcare system requires a healthy workforce. “Without addressing the foundational concerns of our healthcare workers – their job security, their pensions, and their fundamental right to be engaged and respected,” continues President Acheson, “any ‘progress’ on paper risks being undermined by a disaffected and departing workforce.”

This is why it is absolutely critical for healthcare workers, past and present, to have a voice in shaping the future of Yukon’s healthcare. The new Health Authority needs diverse perspectives, including those with direct experience in patient care and system realities.

This is especially difficult because healthcare workers in the Yukon often find themselves in a unique dilemma. As both essential service providers and public sector workers, they face significant barriers to speaking out publicly. There’s a real and understandable concern that critical comments about the Yukon government or the Yukon Hospital Corporation could jeopardize their careers – past or present. Many current and retired professionals worry about potential repercussions, even legal action, for voicing their concerns openly. This chilling effect creates a significant gap between how the public perceives the system and the stark realities and frustrations felt by those working within it. To those who feel alone in their struggle, or who have been made to feel that the problems are “all in their head” because open discussion is discouraged, please know that your experiences are valid and you are not alone.

A Call to Action for Yukon’s Healthcare Workforce

The future of healthcare demands that we not only advocate for accessible and safe care for Yukoners but also for a desirable and respected healthy workplace. We recognize the immense courage it takes for healthcare workers, particularly those still in their careers, to speak out or take a visible role. We understand the legitimate concerns and very real barriers that can prevent individuals from actively intervening in public discourse. However, it is precisely because of these challenges that your unique perspectives are so desperately needed.

The new Health Authority, Shäw Kwä’ą / Health and Wellness Yukon, is actively recruiting for its initial board. This is a vital opportunity to influence the direction of our healthcare system from within, potentially in a way that provides a safer avenue for your valuable input. To those within healthcare, we are not asking you to “step up” without acknowledging the risks; instead, we urge you to consider applying to be on the board for the new Health Authority adding your expertise and insight. Your lived experience, your understanding of the challenges, and your vision for a sustainable and supportive healthcare environment are invaluable.

Find out more and apply here: https://healthandwellnessyukon.ca/board-recruitment

Furthermore, we encourage all Yukoners to visit Northern Health Care Matters. This platform highlights solutions and advocacy efforts from northern healthcare workers, emphasizing the need for governments to listen to their recommendations and work collaboratively to address the systemic issues plaguing our healthcare systems.

The transformation of Yukon’s healthcare system cannot succeed without the full and meaningful engagement of its workforce. It’s time to move beyond reports and headlines and truly put the people who deliver care first. Let your voice be heard.