Albertans can now carry government-issued documents on their mobile devices with the launch of the Alberta Wallet. This new digital service, introduced on Friday, includes a mobile health card, marking the first of its kind in Canada. The mobile health card aims to provide a faster and more convenient way for residents to interact with the health-care system.

Premier Danielle Smith emphasized the importance of modernizing government services. "Albertans deserve better, faster, and smarter services," she said. "That’s why we’re launching this optional tool to supplement Albertans’ existing paper health cards. If you choose to use the new Alberta Wallet, you remain in control of your personal information, which will stay private and only accessible to you."

During a media event at the McDougall Centre, Smith highlighted the need to address the issues associated with traditional paper health cards. "We’re going to be able to address the ongoing embarrassment of the flimsy paper Alberta health care cards," she stated. The new mobile health card functions similarly to the existing paper cards.

Technology and Innovation Minister Nate Glubish noted that 1.8 million people currently have an account. To access the wallet, Albertans aged 14 and older must have a verified MyHealth Records account to add their health card. "We’ll be essentially leveraging some of the existing infrastructure that many Albertans are using today, and giving them a new tool to embed their health card on their phone," Glubish explained.

Parents and guardians can add their children’s health cards to their own Alberta Wallets. The digital health card will serve as valid proof of health insurance coverage throughout Alberta and can be presented at hospitals, clinics, and other medical facilities.

Minister of Primary and Preventative Health Services Adriana LaGrange stated that the new card will provide instant access to health information. "This innovation helps providers deliver care faster and more efficiently, ensuring Albertans receive the treatment they need when they need it," LaGrange said.

Looking ahead, Glubish mentioned that the Alberta Wallet could eventually store additional government documents, such as mobile driver’s licenses, fishing and hunting permits, marriage certificates, and educational diplomas. "There’s a lot of options where we can help give Albertans the option and convenience of having all of these government-issued certificates in one place and carry it in their pocket," he said.

While compatibility with Apple and Google mobile wallets is still in development, Glubish assured users that they will need the Alberta Wallet initially. "You’ll need the Alberta Wallet, but there will be a future option if you prefer to just keep everything in your Apple Wallet or Google Wallet," he said.

Regarding security, Glubish stated that both the Alberta Wallet and mobile health card utilize advanced encryption and security protocols. He emphasized that both platforms are optional and will not be mandatory. "Nobody is going to force you to get rid of your paper card today," he said. "You’re in control. You choose the way you want to use your card."

Users of the digital card will have control over how they share their information. "I wanted to be 100 percent sure that when we offered the service, that only the document owner knows when and where that information is shared," Glubish added. "The Government of Alberta, by design, cannot track or monitor where that document was used, and that is super important to me."

Alongside the mobile health card, LaGrange announced a new health card renewal process aimed at ensuring only eligible residents access insured services. "Regular renewal confirms that only eligible Alberta residents do have access to insured physician and hospital services, helping limit misuses and manage costs responsibly," she said.

The mobile health card will be followed by a new integrated plastic identity card set to launch in 2026. This card will combine driver’s licenses and health-care cards into one document. LaGrange acknowledged concerns about the durability of the current paper health card, stating, "We agree. It’s time for a better solution."

Smith expressed her commitment to improving the system, stating, "We’re trying to get rid of these things," while holding up a worn paper health card. The new plastic card aims to provide a comprehensive and durable solution for Albertans. The Alberta Wallet is now available for download on the Google Play and Apple App Store.