In a separate statement, Goettel agreed. “Targeting the Somali community for a broad set of economic challenges facing the medical industry right now is not only ignorant and hurtful,” she said, “but it’s a distraction from the important work we do every day as a safety net hospital to offer the highest level of care for all people, including our immigrant neighbors.”

In an email to hospital leaders obtained through a public records request, Fernando, who also sits on HCMC’s board, questioned whether hospital staff played a role in characterizing the impact of new immigrants on HCMC’s budget.

HCMC CEO Jennifer DeCubellis said the management does not negatively characterize the community the hospital serves and that Apland’s comments were intended to provide context about why HCMC needs help from the county to pay for uncompensated care.

Hospital officials noted that all employees must undergo anti-racism training. Similar training is available for board members, but not required.

“We’re doubling down to say our job as the safety net hospital is to get racism out of healthcare and that means we’re all doing our part,” DeCubellis said.

As the county’s safety net hospital, HCMC treats all members of the community, regardless of their ability to pay. It receives a taxpayer subsidy from Hennepin County to cover the cost of uncompensated care.