Premier Ranj Pillai and Nova Scotia Premier Tim Houston have signed a letter of intent to co-operate to recruit more health care workers in the two jurisdictions.

The two leaders signed their agreement Wednesday in Halifax.

The two governments will share best practices on the recruitment, retention, training and mobility of health care providers.

That will included the credentialing and licensing of internationally educated health providers and potential models of care such as approaches for rural and remote communities.

This week, Ted Laking, the president of the Association of Yukon Communities, called this summer’s spate of health clinic closures in rural Yukon unreasonable and unacceptable.

“Health care workers are the backbone of our health care system, providing compassionate care for Yukoners to improve their health and well-being,” the Yukon government said in a statement Wednesday.

“The national shortage of health care workers requires a collaborative approach across jurisdictions to identify and implement solutions to address health care workforce needs.”

The letter of intent will remain in effect for two years from the signing date.

“Taking action on health human resources is a priority for our government, and I look forward to advancing this government-to-government collaboration,” said Pillai, a former Nova Scotia resident.

“I was pleased to meet with Premier Houston, and look forward to learning more about the innovative steps Nova Scotia has taken to combat pressures felt in the health sector.”

Nova Scotia has been gaining national recognition for leading initiatives that tackle barriers and create new opportunities for health care recruitment and retention throughout the country.

“We are committed to investing in new ways to get more health care, faster to Nova Scotians across the province,” said Houston.

“I look forward to working with our partners in the Yukon as we combine our efforts, share our knowledge and ensure everyone has access to the care they deserve.”

Health and Social Services Minister Tracy-Anne McPhee said the territorial government’s goal is “to provide high-quality health care for all Yukoners.

“Collaborating with Nova Scotia marks a significant step towards addressing our health human resources challenges,” she said.

“Together, we will leverage experiences and best practices to enhance the recruitment, retention, and training of health care providers.

“Our work together is to help address both immediate needs as well as establish a strong and resilient health care workforce for future generations.”