I am saddened by the news of “low marks for critical health factors” in Lake County. (“New state report gives Lake County low marks for critical health factors,” Thursday, April 4.)

Though it is easy to put the blame on the patient’s lifestyle there is much more that is lacking in Lake County.  

Most folks I know need to travel to another county to receive proper health care. They are just not happy with the lack of professional services offered to our citizens. When one gets older or disabled it gets even harder.

I suggest that the citizens demand and the county government change our current status. Let’s focus on inviting those who have the experience in this matter to transition poorer counties into a reasonable system of health care.  

For instance, the county could accept other health plans or medical groups like Brown and Toyland, Blue Shield or Kaiser for at least one hospital. Since Lake County is rural some negotiations would need to be discussed.

Most of us have left the big city because of economics. We bring our health insurance with us only to be told that we need to go to Santa Rosa to receive any medical care. That’s two counties away!

Surely everyone is affected to some extent of other. I can’t think of anything more needed in this county and I hope someone in a position of power can lead the drive in providing what we most need.

Christine Brazis lives both in San Francisco and Middletown, Calif.