Lucas Nesse, president and CEO of the Minnesota Council of Health Plans, issues statement on Derek Chauvin verdict:
The murder of George Floyd is a tragedy that has inflicted immense grief on our community. Tuesday marked a small step toward healing, as a verdict in the Derek Chauvin murder trial was reached and found the former police officer guilty on all three counts. While we are relieved that justice prevailed, the issue of systemic racism persists and continues to cause irreparable harm. We have a lot of work to do to ensure that the human rights of all people are protected and that opportunities for success are equitably distributed in our state. The Council and its member health plans are committed to partnering with communities of color and others to end systemic racism in the health care system and create meaningful change for the people we serve. Our thoughts are with Minnesotans as we continue to process and grieve the events of the past year. Health plans are also here to support members’ physical and mental health needs during this time. Please contact the number on the back of your insurance card if you need assistance in accessing care.