Anoka Times

Sen. Michelle Benson (R-Ham Lake) has issued a statement about Fairview Health Services' operational and structural changes.

“Consistent with predictions from experts, the state’s COVID-19 response accelerated Fairview’s decision to make substantial changes to their organization," Benson said according to the Minnesota Senate Republican Caucus. "Increased ICU beds and protective measures to serve Minnesotans took precedence from the beginning of the pandemic, despite the inevitable financial and operational impacts to our health care system. The leaders at Fairview prioritized people by sacrificing space and making sure our state had enough COVID-specific beds to manage a surge, thus allaying fears of the unknown in the early months of the emergency. We are grateful for their compassion and commitment to the field during this difficult time."

Benson said it was also announced that the Fairview clinic in Zimmerman will shut its doors.

“They did great work in our community, and many will feel the loss of their usual provider and location. I will continue to advocate for accessible and high-quality care in Zimmerman and all the surrounding areas," Benson said.

Benson is the chair of the Senate Health and Human Services Committee.