August 29, 2025
RED FM News Desk
Alberta is set to retire its long-criticized paper health cards in favor of a new digital option called the “Alberta Wallet” app, Premier Danielle Smith announced Friday in Calgary.
Holding up her own worn-out paper card at the news conference, Smith said the app will allow Albertans to access their health card information directly from their smartphones.
“We’ve been trying to get rid of these things,” she said, showing the bent corners and broken plastic sleeve on her own card.
The move follows widespread public demand to replace the fragile paper cards, which are easily damaged and have been used in Alberta for decades. With Manitoba switching to plastic cards earlier this year, Alberta had become the last province still relying on paper.
Smith also pointed out practical limitations of the current system, such as hospitals not being able to easily share patient information. She said the new digital system will help resolve those issues.
In addition to the app, a durable plastic health card integrated with Albertans’ driver’s licences will be introduced next year. However, Smith emphasized the app will be optional and that existing paper cards will still be accepted.
Alberta Technology Minister Nate Glubish, who joined Smith at the announcement, reassured the public that privacy and data security are a top priority. He said the app uses advanced encryption to keep users’ personal information secure.
“You are in control of how you use this,” said Glubish. “The government cannot see your activity — our role is simply to issue proof that you are an insured Albertan.”
Glubish also mentioned that the Alberta Wallet may eventually support other personal documents, such as birth certificates, marriage certificates, and diplomas.
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