Manitobans are being invited to share their views on a proposed all-in-one Personal Identification Card (PIC) that, if approved, would offer added convenience, privacy and security by combining a person’s driver’s licence, photo ID, health and travel card.
The PIC, a joint proposal by Manitoba Health, Healthy Living and Seniors and Manitoba Public Insurance, could eventually eliminate the paper Manitoba Health card by placing an individual’s Personal Health I.D. No. (PHIN) on the security enhanced, tamper-free PIC.
“Families access the health services they need through their PHINs so moving them onto secure, durable cards has many potential benefits,” said Health Minister Sharon Blady. “However, we also recognize that this proposal may affect different Manitobans in different ways so we need to hear from those who access and provide health services in our province before we choose a path forward.”
In addition to seeking input from individual members of the public, consultation will take place with numerous groups that may have unique perspectives on this proposal, including First Nations and Metis organizations and communities, Manitobans with disabilities, seniors, vulnerable Manitobans, health care providers and the Manitoba Ombudsman.
“The ultimate goal of the PIC is to better protect Manitobans against identity theft, forgery and fraud while ensuring that private information stays confidential,” said Manitoba Public Insurance President and CEO, Dan Guimond.
“Another key benefit is that the proposal would make it easier for low income and homeless Manitobans to gain free access to proper identification.”
For Manitobans who drive, the new all-in-one PIC would offer a combined driver’s licence, photo ID, health and travel card. For non-drivers, the new all-in-one PIC would offer a combined photo ID, health and travel card.
“Maintaining access to health services and ensuring confidential health information remains private will be a central focus as we continue to explore this concept,” said Blady.
“Consulting with the public prior to proceeding with an initiative is an important part of our mandate,” said Guimond. “We hope Manitobans will take the time to share their views as we move through this process so that we can fully address any issues that are identified.”
Manitobans are invited to review a discussion paper on the topic and complete an online survey by visiting mpi.mb.ca/consultations.
Manitoba Public Insurance representatives will be available to discuss the concept in Steinbach at Clearspring Centre on September 17 (11am to 5pm).
In addition to being available online at mpi.mb.ca, the discussion paper can be obtained by calling 204-985-7000, toll-free 1-800-665-2410, TTY/TTD 204-985-8832. Manitobans can also provide written comments on the personal identification card by email to cardconsultation@mpi.mb.ca or by regular post.
