As previously promised by the provincial government, 2026 has kicked off with the rollout of a digital health card initiative. It’s one more way, the province says, to make healthcare more accessible. 

“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 Premier Wab 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.”

Beginning immediately, Manitobans can apply for their digital card through the provincial website, Google Play, or the App Store. Afterward they will have a secure way to carry their personal health card information on their digital device. 

The digital health card doesn’t negate the plastic or paper health cards, either of which will still be accepted at any Manitoba healthcare facility. 

The province introduced the plastic health card one year ago to replace the paper version. Later that year, they also rolled out a new online appointment booking system called MediNav.

MediNav can be uploaded to any device, ensuring security through the use of a login ID and password. Residents can use it to make online bookings for same-day and next-day appointments for non-emergency care. 

Participating clinics include a variety of walk-in clinics and minor injury clinics, the St. Boniface Hospital’s primary care clinic, and the Steinbach QuickCare clinic. Once on the app, a drop-down panel provides a list of clinics, their locations, and appointment openings. 

The goal of the program is to make emergency and urgent care more available to those who need it and to reduce long wait times in ERs for those whose care is less urgent. Sprains, infections, and minor injuries are examples of non-urgent care.