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Province aims to phase out flimsy paper cards with digital and future plastic replacements
CALGARY — Alberta is introducing a new app to replace its long-criticized paper health cards, offering residents the option to store their card on their phone.
Premier Danielle Smith unveiled the Alberta Wallet app on Friday, holding up her own well-worn health card as an example of the outdated system the government intends to replace. She said the mobile version will be more durable and convenient, while protecting users’ privacy with encryption technology.
“Albertans deserve better, faster and smarter services,” Smith said. “We’re going to be able to address the ongoing embarrassment of the flimsy paper Alberta health care cards. The new mobile health card is the first of its kind in Canada, and functions exactly like the existing paper ones.”
The app requires Albertans aged 14 and older to have a verified Alberta.ca account and MyHealth Records access. Parents and guardians can add their children’s cards, while spouses and dependents will also be able to share cards through the platform.
Technology and Innovation Minister Nate Glubish said 1.8 million people already have an Alberta.ca account. He said the new app leverages that system to provide a secure way to store and present proof of health coverage.
The digital health card is valid at hospitals, clinics and other facilities across Alberta. Paper cards will remain usable, and participation in the Alberta Wallet is optional.
In addition to the mobile version, Alberta plans to introduce a new plastic identity card in 2026 that will combine driver’s licences and health cards into one document. Primary and Preventive Health Services Minister Adriana LaGrange said the new card will provide durability and convenience that the current paper cards lack.
“We agree it’s time for a better solution,” LaGrange said.
The Alberta Wallet app is now available on Apple and Google Play stores, with more documents expected to be added in the future.
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