Auditor General calls for clearer, more transparent health-sector financial reporting
WINNIPEG – Auditor General Tyson Shtykalo today released a report highlighting significant gaps in health-sector financial reporting that make it difficult for MLAs and Manitobans to understand how billions of dollars in public funds are spent.
“Manitoba spends nearly $10 billion annually on health care, but current financial reporting does not provide a clear picture of how that money is spent, what services cost, or the financial pressures facing the system,” Shtykalo said.
The report, Observations on Health Sector Financial Reporting and Accountability in Manitoba, includes five recommendations to make health-sector financial information clearer, more consistent, more transparent, and easier to understand.
Largest area of public spending
Health care is Manitoba's largest area of public spending, accounting for approximately 38 per cent of provincial expenditures.
The report outlines how financial information in the sector is fragmented across multiple organizations and reporting documents, making it difficult to understand the cost of delivering health services, assess performance across the system, compare results over time, and identify emerging financial risks.
“Effective oversight of Manitoba's health-care system relies on access to clear, reliable, and understandable financial information,” Shtykalo said. “When financial reporting is inconsistent or fragmented, it becomes more difficult for decision-makers and the public to assess performance, identify financial risks, and hold the system accountable for results.”
Today's report is not an audit. Rather, its recommendations are based on observations arising from financial statement audits, a review of publicly available financial reporting, and an analysis of recent health-sector financial information and trends.
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In 2026, the Office of the Auditor General of Manitoba celebrates its 150th anniversary. Since 1876, provincial auditors have helped to ensure that public resources are managed effectively and responsibly. Today, as an independent officer of the Manitoba Legislative Assembly, the Auditor General proudly continues that legacy. The Office is dedicated to promoting government accountability and public administration excellence for all Manitobans.
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