WASHINGTON (AP) - President Barack Obama says Americans will still be able to choose their doctors under the health care changes he is seeking.

The president met Wednesday at the White House with five governors to discuss their views on revamping the nation's health care system.

Obama said they all agreed that priorities include controlling costs, assuring the choice of doctors and providing high-quality care.

Obama said it is essential to enact wide-ranging health care changes this year.

He met with Republican governors Jim Douglas of Vermont and Mike Rounds of South Dakota, and with Democrats Jim Doyle of Wisconsin, Jennifer Granholm of Michigan and Christine Gregoire of Washington.