Small business owners in Atlanta face rising health insurance costs

Owners of Atlanta-based businesses JenChan’s and Mikkelson’s Market are facing a significant financial crisis due to soaring health insurance premiums. After a co-owner, Jen Chan, underwent treatment for aggressive breast cancer and an employee required surgery following an accident, the business's insurance costs were projected to double.

The situation highlights a broader challenge for small businesses in the United States, where a single serious illness or injury can lead to unsustainable insurance hikes. According to the Georgia Restaurant Association, nine in ten members are small businesses. Industry data indicates that only approximately one-third of U.S. restaurants currently offer health insurance coverage due to these affordability issues.