Missouri health care workers are allowed to get their coronavirus vaccination, but actually getting one could be another story. During a House committee hearing, members questioned state health leaders about Missouri’s vaccination plan and the populations struggling to get access to the drug. Representative Michael O’Donnell, a St. Louis County Republican, says the workers are now competing for the vaccine with those 65 years and older and citizens with certain health conditions.

State Health Department Director Randall Williams says he understands and has had the same argument from dentists, morticians, optometrists, and others. Williams says Missouri chose to give the large healthcare systems the vaccine first because they are constantly in contact with sick patients.