Applications for plastic health cards open

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This article was published 15/01/2025 (260 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Manitobans can now apply for a plastic health card online.

Health, Seniors and Long-term Care Minister Uzoma Asagwara and Innovation and New Technology Minister Mike Moroz made the announcement in a news release Tuesday.

“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,” Asagwara said.

“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.”

To apply for or request a new Manitoba health card, visit the Manitoba Health website.

Manitobans applying for such a card should expect it to be delivered in the coming months, Asagwara said. A digital option will also be available soon, the release said. Paper health cards remain valid.

“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,” Moroz said in the release.

Premier Wab Kinew said in his state of the province address on Dec. 3 that Manitobans would be able to order the new plastic card that month. He later told The Canadian Press the rollout was delayed until mid-January, partly because the Canada Post strike prevented new paper health cards from being sent out.

The province is also transitioning to individual cards for all Manitobans, including children, who are currently listed on a parent’s card. Asagwara said that change aligns with other jurisdictions across Canada.

The bilingual card includes a field that allows residents to indicate their language preference, English or French. Manitoba will be the second jurisdiction in Canada to offer the feature.

fpcity@freepress.mb.ca