Applications are now open to receive a new plastic Manitoba health card. (GOV.MB.CA)
WINNIPEG — Manitobans can now upgrade their traditional paper health cards to modernized plastic versions.
The initiative, aimed at modernizing the decades-old health card system, allows residents to apply for plastic cards online.
“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,” said Health, Seniors and Long-term Care Minister Uzoma Asagwara.
For now, the current paper health cards remain valid at all healthcare facilities, with plans to introduce a digital health card option in the near future.
In addition to the plastic card upgrade, the province is transitioning to individual health cards for all residents, including children who were previously listed on family cards. This shift aligns Manitoba with other Canadian jurisdictions and ensures improved record-keeping.
The province first announced the switch from paper to plastic health cards in its 2024 budget last March.
“Your health coverage shouldn’t rely on a torn, ripped-up health card,” Premier Wab Kinew said at the time. “Manitobans have been very vocal about the need to make improvements and we have heard them.”
Manitobans can apply for their new health cards by visiting manitoba.ca/health/mhsip.
