Gov. Walz’s rules Threatening Local Health Care Providers

As vaccine distribution declines, Governor Tim Walz’s three day rule is beginning to pose a challenge for smaller health care providers and clinics. Back in January, in an effort to expand vaccine distribution efforts, Walz implemented guidelines that mandated providers had to distribute 90 percent of their vaccine doses within a 72 hour period of receiving them. Now; however, many clinics are experiencing a decline in vaccine appointments and many health care providers say that the three day window will begin to cause a barrier for those who are located within the Greater Minnesota area. 

While 92% of providers are still currently hitting the state’s goal, many are worried because of a  noticeable decline in people who are willing to receive the vaccine. Eric Weller, the director of the South Central Health Care Coalition, a collaborative of local agencies and organizations in the region that coordinates emergency responses, cites the difficulties for smaller providers. Weller says he understands that the rule was necessary back in January in order to keep providers accountable, as well as create a sense of urgency to fill vaccination appointments; however, it is time to reassess the vaccine distribution situation once again. 

It is necessary for Governor Walz to understand the importance of altering the 72 hour rule. When smaller clinics are unable to fill their appointment slots within the necessary three day window, they then receive smaller amounts of vaccine doses for their general area. This rule could continue to impact smaller providers while allowing many big name pharmaceutical companies to continue to thrive in areas where vaccine appointments are still in high demand. After a year of financial stress and turmoil, our governor should not continue to place barriers on small locally owned businesses while allowing big name corporations to economically flourish.

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