Cancer Treatment Fuels Insurance Crisis for Small Business

Last year, Jen Chan was diagnosed with aggressive breast cancer, leading to a challenging treatment journey for her and her wife, Emily. Following initial recovery hopes, further tests revealed cancer cells in Jen's lymph nodes, necessitating another year of chemotherapy. During this period, the couple received news that their restaurant's insurance costs were set to double.

This insurance crisis impacts not only Jen and an injured employee but all staff at their Atlanta businesses, JenChan's and Mikkelson's Market. Small businesses, like restaurants where only about a third offer insurance, find it increasingly difficult to afford coverage. High claims from serious illnesses or injuries can cause rates to skyrocket, making it unsustainable.

Industry data from March 2025 indicates that health insurance costs remain the top concern for small businesses. A significant majority believe current high costs will make coverage unsustainable in the next five to ten years. Hospitality workers, in particular, have lower insurance rates compared to other private-sector workers.

The Chans' partially self-funded policy meant they directly paid medical claims up to a limit. When Jen's treatment costs surged, their monthly insurance bill climbed to over $2,400 per person in June, nearly four times their rent. This situation forced them to seek community support.

Despite these financial hurdles, the community rallied around the Chans. A GoFundMe campaign raised over $128,000, assisting with both medical bills and employee insurance costs. This support allowed the Chans to establish a health savings account for their employees.

The Chans are sharing their story to highlight the national issue of inadequate health coverage for small businesses. They emphasize the need for a fundamental rethinking of healthcare coverage in the US to prevent more businesses from facing similar crises and losing employees.