By Amelia Sponseller, FNP-C, Menopause Society Certified Practitioner
I hear it all the time — insurance premiums keep going up and deductibles are higher than ever, yet seeing a provider seems harder every year. Many Mainers are paying more for healthcare coverage while getting less access and more stress in return.
I opened Marshview Direct Primary Care (DPC) in Scarborough to offer a solution. It’s a new model of healthcare that’s simple, affordable, and puts my patients—not insurance companies—at the center of their care.
Simple, Transparent, and Predictable
With DPC, you pay one flat monthly fee that covers most of your primary care needs—in person or virtual office visits, wellness visits, and some routine labs. There are no copays or surprise bills. You’ll always know exactly what your care costs, which makes it easier to plan and budget for your healthcare. Even better, Health Savings Account funds can be used for DPC membership fees starting in January 2026.
At Marshview DPC, we believe in transparency and simplicity. My goal is to eliminate financial barriers so patients can focus on feeling their best—not worrying about what their visit will cost.
I pass along wholesale pricing on many services—often 50–90% less than traditional rates. For example, a simple lab test that might cost $150 through insurance could be just $15 at my office. These savings add up, especially for families managing chronic conditions or needing regular follow ups.
Better Access, Fewer Expensive Visits
Because I limit my patient load, my patients get the time and attention they deserve. When they are sick or hurt, I make sure to see them on the same or next day. They can also directly access me by phone, text, or email, so if something comes up after-hours or on the weekend, they can often avoid a costly urgent care or emergency room visit. Many of my patients find this access saves hundreds of dollars by avoiding unnecessary visits for things like minor injuries, infections, or medication refills.
A Smarter Way to Manage Your Health
By focusing on prevention, early intervention, and direct, ongoing communication, DPC helps keep patients healthier and reduces the expensive emergency visits and hospital stays that can come from delayed care.
At Marshview DPC, we’re bringing healthcare back to what it should be: personal, accessible, and affordable. If you’re tired of rising premiums and unpredictable costs, DPC can help you take control of your spending while giving you better, more personalized care every step of the way.
Amelia Sponseller is a Scarborough resident, Family Nurse Practitioner, Menopause Society Certified Practitioner, and owner of Marshview Direct Primary Care.
Photo by Vitaly Gariev
