Nov. 21--LEWISBURG -- While the nation debates how to enact meaningful and effective health care reform, industry officials told business leaders that working to help people stay healthy in the first place would be a good way to start.

"Lifestyles do play a role," said Michael O'Keefe, president and chief executive officer at Evangelical Community Center. "You can take care of yourself mentally and physically. If you don't, you won't be able to take care of anyone else."

Four health care experts told members at a Chamber of Commerce event Friday morning that taking care of yourself helps avoid seeking health care needs, which lessens the cost.

The national topic was the subject of the forum held for area business leaders and community individuals.

"Health care reform is like a Rubik's cube; it can be confusing," O'Keefe said. "No one intentionally designed what we have now. No way in creation. How we got here is a tortured tale."

He believes it needs addressed and should be resolved, but lawmakers are trying to do too many things at once and should focus on one key point across the board.

"It is fundamental to transform this current sick care system to a health care system," Betsy Snook, CEO of the Pennsylvania State Nurses Association, agreed.

In addition were speakers Sam Denisco, director of government affairs for the Pennsylvania State Chamber, and Renee Ferry, managed care coordinator for Central Susquehanna Healthcare Providers.

Ferry also mentioned the importance of employers offering health wellness programs to their employees. Because employees would stay healthy, they wouldn't be utilizing health care expenses.

Denisco told the group the state organization's views on the health care bill and said it supports eliminating mandates, which the state has 40.

"We feel that mandates that drive up costs should be eliminated," he said.

He reminded individuals to continue sending thoughts, questions and concerns to local government officials, because they're the ones making the laws and they will listen.

"Keep engaged, be an advocate. They're an official to represent you and they will do so," he said.

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