Manitoba launches digital health card – PortageOnline.com

Manitobans can now apply for and access a digital health card on their mobile devices, a move government officials say will make health care more convenient and accessible. Premier Wab Kinew, Health, Seniors and Long-Term Care Minister Uzoma Asagwara, and Innovation and New Technology Minister Mike Moroz announced the rollout on Monday.

“Digital health cards put Manitobans in control of their own information, make it easier to access care, and support a safer, more responsive health system,” says Kinew. “Over the past year, we’ve moved from paper health cards to plastic and now to a digital option. It is a practical step that reflects our focus on patient safety, accessibility and putting people first as we make health care better for families.”

Easier access with MediNav

The digital health card works alongside MediNav, the province’s online appointment-booking system launched in 2025. Together, the tools allow Manitobans to find and book care at participating clinics across the province directly from a mobile device.

“We eliminated the backlog of health card wait times and now we’re making the process even faster,” notes Asagwara. “For Manitobans who are already registered, the digital health card will be available right away. No waiting, no delays. This is about making health care more accessible and responsive for families across the province.”

The card allows Manitobans to securely carry their health information on a mobile device and present it when receiving care, reducing the need to carry a physical card. Residents can choose to request a plastic card, a digital card, or both when signing up, and those with existing paper or plastic cards can request a digital card at any time, the ministers say.

Convenience and security

“The MB Wallet app makes health care more mobile. It is convenient, secure and easy to use,” adds Moroz. “By offering this service, Manitoba is putting families at the forefront of modern, accessible health care.”

The MB Wallet app is available free of charge through the Apple App Store and Google Play. Once downloaded, the app allows offline access to stored digital credentials. To protect privacy, users remain in control of when to use their credentials and what information they choose to share, the ministers note.

Government officials say the digital health card modernization supports upcoming patient safety legislation that aims to create a safer and more efficient patient experience. It also gives Manitobans greater confidence and autonomy in navigating the health system, Kinew remarks.

For those interested in applying, more information is available online at gov.mb.ca/health/mhsip/digitalhealthcard.html.

With the launch of the digital card, Manitoba joins a growing number of provinces offering mobile-friendly health solutions, aiming to make health care simpler, faster, and safer for all families.