Marcia West, Health Insurance Broker

04/23/2026

This article was sent to me this morning from United Healthcare. We all know the cost of health insurance can be hard to swallow unless and until we qualify for Medicare or Medicaid. Many of us forego coverage but you may have options you're unaware of. That's why you should consult a broker before making decisions that can be devastating.

Here are the facts

Emergency healthcare can be expensive, even for a single visit - The average ER visit in the U.S. costs approximately $2,700, and charges commonly exceed $3,000 depending on the severity of the condition and services provided .These costs can add up when diagnostic testing, imaging, or specialty care are involved.

Hospital care can create unexpected medical bills - The average per-day hospital cost is $3,025, with California ($4,337) the most expensive and Mississippi ($1,425) the least. Even short hospital stays can cost thousands of dollars, while cases involving inpatient care or advanced treatment can result in tens of thousands of dollars in medical expenses.

Uninsured individuals face a higher risk of medical debt - Research shows that high medical costs often translate into long-term financial strain for uninsured individuals and they are more likely to carry medical debt than those with healthcare coverage.

04/16/2026

Here's an article that just arrived in my inbox. An excellent source of info for Medicare recipients.

Changes in income, marital status, work hours and other life events can exempt enrollees from surcharges.

03/17/2026

https://www.benefitspro.com/2026/03/16/microsoft-joins-ai-health-trend/?kw=Microsoft%20joins%20AI%20health%20trend&utm_source=email&utm_medium=enl&utm_campaign=newsroomupdate&utm_content=20260317&utm_term=bpro&user_id=6db40f0fadc1f43179daac7f2d00a5f16e044a82c87d56ad3d6bd3d05ed8e1c6

Microsoft is making Copilot Health available through a phased rollout with a waiting list for enrollment.

02/24/2026

Are you covered for the unexpected? You have health insurance or a Medicare policy. Maybe you have life and disability. The small expenses like hospital copays, ambulance, skilled nursing care or prescription deductibles can add up. Coverage for these expenses is easily affordable for most of us and will give you peace of mind should the unexpected happen. If you already have a broker, reach out to them for a quote. IM me if you have questions or would like a quote. Twenty minutes of time doesn't cost you anything.

02/02/2026

To all my North Fulton friends: Who would like to have a bonafide 12 join you for Super Bowl Sunday? I make an awesome plate of nachos and my guacamole is the best this side of the Rio Grande. No Patriots fans please.

01/06/2026

Shocking news! Malnutrition has gained focus as the fastest growing cause of death in America, particularly among older Americans. Here's link to the full story.

Curated by Smartbrief. Malnutrition has become the fastest-growing cause of death in America, with a sixfold increase over the past decade, according to a Washington Post analysis of CDC data. This rise is notably higher among Americans ages 85 and older. Experts like Uche Akobundu from Meals...

12/16/2025

If you noticed I haven't posted on this page for the past few months, here's why:
1. Medicare enrollments take priority over everything else during the Annual Enrollment/Election Period.
2. What can I say? The state of health insurance in America is in flux with ACA subsidies going away and nothing concrete is here to replace them. Yes, there are proposals floating around, but for now it's wait-and-see. When I see progress has been made, I'll be sure to keep my readers informed.
Meanwhile, please have a safe and happy holiday season!

11/20/2025

Maybe you've heard the horror stories from those who suffered side effects from COVID vaccines. Here's a reminder of what can happen if you don't get your vaccines. My son had long COVID that lasted a couple of years. He lost his job and couldn't handle normal activities like walking down the street to his local coffee shop. If you're thinking COVID vaccines are too risky, consider the alternative. Here's a good reminder to make sure you are up to speed, especially if you plan to travel over the holidays.

Information about Long COVID symptoms, conditions, and complications.

10/07/2025

All Americans are concerned right now about what will happen to our health insurance availability in 2026. Politicians blame each other for the government shutdown. That’s what politicians do. I can’t predict the outcome, but I can tell you illegal aliens/undocumented workers do not now or in any proposed legislation qualify for ACA tax credits or Medicaid. High income earners can get tax credits but at a much lower percentage than low income earners. My job is not to argue the merits of the proposed legislation. I can only rely on experts in my field who predict costs will rise. Meanwhile let’s hope and pray a bill gets passed soon.

10/01/2025

Supplement or Advantage: The Choice is Yours

Time and again I've had clients who are new to Medicare tell me their doctor, dentist, chiropractor, neighbor, sister, Bridge Club member, pickle ball partner, you name it, tell them to stay away from Medicare Advantage plans. Well meaning as they may be, these are not licensed and certified Medicare brokers. They have no business giving advice on Medicare enrollments. I entered this profession to help people make informed decisions. I collect data on their medications, medical conditions and where they live. While I try not to pry into their income level, I do want to know if they're working or not, have a pension or not. These factors could make a difference. I educate them on the pros and cons of each choice and let them make their own decisions. Then I help them shop for plans that best meet their needs. And once a plan or two are suggested, there's no need to ask around. What's best for you may be very different from what's best for others. Trust your broker's advice.

09/23/2025

ATTENTION VETERANS: Word has it that CMA, the government agency overseeing Medicare compliance, is automatically moving some individuals in MA only plans (Medicare Advantage plans without prescription drug coverage) to MAPD plans. If this happens to you, make sure you contact Medicare or a broker to get back to the plan that best meets your needs. You don't need to lower coverage in other areas for coverage you already have with the VA.