The Manitoba government has announced that residents can now apply for a modernized plastic health card online. The new cards are part of the Budget that the NDP announced earlier in 2024.
“Our government has been working hard to move our health-card system into the modern era and we’re thankful to Manitobans’ patience as we take time to get this process right,” said Health, Seniors and Long-term Care Minister Uzoma Asagwara. “Over the next few months, we expect the popularity of this initiative to mean it may take some time for every Manitoban to receive an updated card but we’re focused on finally getting this done.”
Manitobans applying for a plastic health card should expect it to be delivered in the coming months, the minister noted. Paper health cards continue to be valid and accepted at health-care facilities. A digital health card option will also be available soon.
“I’m sure Manitobans are just as excited as we are to say goodbye to a fading paper card and replace it with a more durable option,” said Innovation and New Technology Minister Mike Moroz. “This is just one step our government is taking to both modernize government services and make sure Manitobans can easily access services they need.”
Manitoba is also enhancing health-care access for children and youth by transitioning to individual health cards for all Manitobans, including children who were previously listed on a family card, said Asagwara, noting the change aligns with jurisdictions across Canada and updates outdated record-keeping, ensuring every child and youth in Manitoba has their own health card.
The bilingual card now includes a field which allows residents to indicate their official language preference, English or French, making Manitoba the second jurisdiction in Canada to offer this feature.
To apply for or request a new Manitoba health card, visit manitoba.ca.
