Winnipeg 
The Manitoba government has announced that residents can now apply online for updated plastic health cards.
Credit: manitoba.ca
The new cards aim to modernize the province’s health card system, transitioning from the longstanding paper format. Health, Seniors and Long-Term Care Minister Uzoma Asagwara and Innovation and New Technology Minister Mike Moroz made the announcement today.
Manitobans who apply for the new plastic cards should anticipate delivery in the coming months. In the meantime, paper health cards remain valid and accepted at healthcare facilities. A digital health card option is also expected to be introduced soon.
Minister Asagwara acknowledged potential delays in card delivery due to high demand, stating, “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.”
In addition to the material change, the province is moving to individual health cards for all residents, including children, who were previously listed on family cards. This update aligns with practices in other provinces and improves record-keeping by ensuring every child and youth in Manitoba has a personal card.
Minister Moroz highlighted the importance of the modernization effort, describing the plastic cards as a step toward improving accessibility and efficiency in government services.
The bilingual card includes a feature allowing residents to indicate their official language preference, English or French. This makes Manitoba the second province in Canada to provide this option.
Manitobans applying for the new cards should expect delivery within a few months.
