I've been coming to Watson Lake to do locums for years now. I keep coming back because it's a great group of people and setting for rural medicine. You just can't find this type of medicine in a city.– Dr. Morgan Brache
Dr. Aline Halliday
Celebrating Dr. Aline Halliday: Yukon’s First Resident in the Yukon Edmonton Pilot Program
The Yukon Edmonton Pilot is an exciting new Family Physician Residency initiative created through a partnership between the University of Alberta, the Yukon Medical Association, and the Government of Yukon.
This program represents an important step forward in strengthening medical training opportunities in the North — and we are proud to welcome Yukoner Dr. Aline Halliday as the very first family medicine resident to participate.
“I’m so excited to be a part of this new chapter and can’t wait to see what’s next for this program. I think everyone should come do an elective in the Yukon!”
— Dr. Aline Halliday
To celebrate Dr. Halliday, we asked her about her journey back to the Yukon, what she enjoys most about working here, and what advice she would share with future medical learners interested in rural medicine.
Training in Yukon Communities
Dr. Halliday completed electives in the Yukon during medical school, gaining experience in the communities that helped shape her path.
Where did you get the opportunity to train in the Yukon as a medical student?
“As a medical student, I worked in Whitehorse and Carmacks. I'm looking forward to spending more time in more communities as a resident!”
Why She Chose to Be the First Resident
As the first resident in the Yukon Edmonton Pilot, Dr. Halliday is helping pave the way for future learners to train and build careers in the territory.
What drew you to want to be the first resident through the Pilot Residency Program?
“The chance to complete my medical training in my hometown and start giving back to the community that raised me was a no-brainer. I've always had such amazing experiences during my rural and northern training, so I knew this opportunity would lead to great learning while living in a place that is really special to me.”
What She Loves Most About Working in the Yukon
For Dr. Halliday, one of the most meaningful parts of practicing medicine in the territory is the strong sense of community.
What do you love most about working here?
“The people! I feel very connected to the community, and everyone I've worked with has been really helpful, kind, and supportive. Having the mountains, my friends, and my family close by is also pretty hard to beat.”
Life Outside Residency
Even with the demands of residency, Dr. Halliday makes time to recharge in true Yukon fashion.
How do you like to unwind after a long shift?
“I like to get out for a ski or bike ride with my dog on the trails behind my house.”
Advice for Future Rural Physicians
Dr. Halliday encourages medical students and Yukoners considering rural practice to seek out every opportunity to learn in northern settings.
What advice would you give yourself as a medical student interested in rural medicine?
“Take advantage of any and every opportunity for rural exposure. It's a great way to get hands-on learning experiences and find your community within medicine. And get outside as much as possible!”
Looking Ahead
Dr. Halliday’s participation in the Yukon Edmonton Pilot Residency Program marks an exciting milestone for family medicine training in the territory. Her leadership and enthusiasm reflect the strength of Yukon’s medical community and the promise of what this program will bring in the years ahead.
We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Halliday home and look forward to seeing the impact she will make across Yukon communities!
