Local public health officials have raised concerns about recent revisions to the state’s vaccine distribution plan, which prioritizes people over 70 and those between ages 16 and 69 with specific underlying health conditions over some essential workers and those living in group settings.

The vaccination of older and more vulnerable Montanans could begin this month after the state finishes providing doses to frontline health care workers.

Health Officer Matt Kelley said Thursday the changes to the distribution plan leave some key groups waiting longer to receive the vaccine. As a result, the Gallatin City-County Health Department is exploring whether it can deviate from the state plan.