Twenty-seven Decorah area residents met recently to discuss healthcare reform legislation as it is developing in Congress.
In attendance were healthcare providers, representatives of the health insurance industry, and consumers of healthcare in a variety of its forms.
The Organizing for America network encouraged such events nationwide and provided information and suggestions for consideration.
Meeting in the back room of T-Bock's Sports Bar and Grill, local participants first looked at President Obama's principles for the plan that will emerge from Congress, including reduced costs, guaranteed choice and ensuring that all Americans have quality, affordable health care.
Each attendee spoke of his or her own experiences with the current healthcare system and expressed views concerning the changes needed.
Organizing for America asked each of its participating groups to become involved in healthcare service projects in their local communities in addition to lobbying their Congressional representatives for passage of reform legislation. Projects that Decorah attendees plan to aid include the local food pantries, the free clinic, and upcoming Habitat for Humanity builds.
For more information about the Obama administrations work to pass comprehensive health reform, visit Healthreform.gov.