Physicians Urge Unfettered Access to Care for all Minnesotans

January 30, 2026

Nearly four dozen physician leaders, physicians-in-training and legislators urgently called on Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to allow unimpeded access to care for all Minnesotans.  

The MMA, along with representatives from Minnesota Chapter of American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG); the Minnesota Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics; the Minnesota Chapter of the American College of Emergency Physicians; and the Minnesota Academy of Family Physicians, all addressed the issue at a press conference on January 20 at the Minnesota State Capitol. Speakers also include two elected physicians: Sen. Alice Mann, MD; and Sen. Matt Klein, MD. 

MMA President Lisa Mattson, MD, speaks during the January 20 press conference.

Physicians spoke of patients who are missing appointments and care because they are afraid of being detained by ICE. They said this crisis is bringing more chaos to the practice of medicine in Minnesota than COVID. 

“This is a moment of crisis in healthcare because of ICE and their presence in our healthcare settings,” said Sen. Alice Mann, MD. 

“We know that people are not going to their regularly scheduled doctor appointments or leaving their homes for work or school, or to pick up prescriptions, get their vaccinations, or obtain healthy food for fear of being detained by ICE,” said MMA President Lisa Mattson, MD. “The MMA wants to ensure that all Minnesotans, regardless of immigration status, have access to safe, timely, and high-quality medical care and that ICE enforcement actions do not interfere with that care and undermine the health of our communities.” 

The press conference can be viewed here.