Manitoba proposes dumping health cards, using licences instead

Manitoba is looking into theidea ofusing identification cards and driverlicencesto accesshealth-care services.

Instead of needing to carry around health cards, people could simply use one of those other photo-ID cards issued by Manitoba Public Insurance.

"In addition to reducing the number of cardsManitobanshave to carry, we would be better protected against identity theft because drivers'licencesand ID cards are securely issued and tamper proof," saidHealth Minister SharonBlady.

The MPI identificationcard was first introduced in 2009 to serve as proof of age, identity and residency.

MPI already issues licencesand ID cards to more than 850,000 people, or70 per cent ofManitobans, according to the province. So using those instead ofhealth cards would eliminate duplication, Blady said.

If the ideais approved, a new provincial registry of identity would be created, Blady said. No personal health or drug records would be shared with MPI, whichwould only be responsible for verifying the identity of anyone issued a card.

Similarly, no driver's licence information or driver history would be shared with Manitoba Health.

Starting in September, Manitobans will be askedto provide feedback on the proposalthrough the MPI website, online surveys and informational displays at shopping malls throughout the province,Blady said.

Health-care providers will also be consulted along with the Office of the Manitoba Ombudsman to ensure that personal information will continue to be securely protected, she added.