Ethan’s motorcycle, his main source of transportation, needed some work. Ethan was mechanically savvy skills, so he did what any responsible person would do. On his day off, he woke up early to start repairing his motorcycle so it would be in good working order for the busy week ahead. Things were going well until he twisted to grab a tool and was gripped by an excruciating pain in his pack. It was so intense he felt paralyzed. 

In many other situations, that injury could derail someone’s life. 

A typical emergency room visit costs exceed $1,000 in nearly every state, an unaffordable cost for most light industrial and manufacturing workers. Those employed in manufacturing and light industrial sectors, which tend to be low-paying, face additional challenges. For them, an injury could trigger a cascade of negative effects, impacting their health, finances, and overall quality of life for several months, if not years. This vicious cycle of consequences could easily leave them struggling to get back on their feet in more ways than one.

Ethan’s back injury could have been a disaster, but it turned out to be a shining example of how Ōnin affordable benefits of affordable and accessible healthcare. 

Knowing he had Ōnin benefits, Ethan had the courage to seek help at the emergency room. And thanks to the affordable healthcare plan provided by Ōnin, he was able to receive the treatment he needed — including a brace and prescriptions — for less than $100. Thanks to his medical care, Ethan will recover from his injury more quickly and be able to resume his normal activities, including work.

By providing affordable and accessible healthcare benefits, we are not only alleviating the stress and anxiety that comes with injury or illness but also empowering our Teammates to seek out the care they need to recover so they can work better and live better. 

Ōnin has always been committed to putting our team first; this story is just one example of how that commitment has paid off. By having our team’s back, we are creating a culture of care, compassion, and resilience that inspires us all to be our best selves, both on and off the job.

*All names and identifying characteristics have been changed