Healthcare providers across the state say fear of federal immigration operations are keeping patients from doctors’ offices and emergency rooms.

Patients are canceling appointments, delaying treatment and avoiding care altogether — not because they aren’t sick, but because they’re afraid.  

That fear has very real consequences. When people delay care, their health suffers, and puts a strain on families, clinics and the broader health care system.  

Coming up at 9 a.m. on Wednesday, MPR News guest host Catharine Richert talks about how ICE’s presence is reshaping access to health care in Minnesota — what providers see on the ground, what it means for public health, and how clinics and hospitals are responding.