Ozarks Profile: Tom Oney

Tom Oney, branch claims manager, Missouri Employers Mutual Insurance Company

Tell us about your company.

MEM is the largest provider of workers' compensation insurance in Missouri and is committed to its vision of "safe, healthy and injury-free workplaces." Should a workplace injury occur, our claims adjusters are dedicated to returning injured employees back to work as soon as medically appropriate. We firmly believe in our motto of "Taking care of folks."

How did you arrive at this position?

I have been in the insurance claims business for nearly 25 years, working for major carriers, third-party administrators and large self-insured corporations. MEM was an opportunity to work with insurance professionals dedicated to the highest level of service.

What are the biggest challenges in workers' compensation right now?

The steadily increasing cost of medical care represents a huge challenge in workers' compensation. It directly impacts the cost of every claim, which, in turn, impacts costs to the business community.

There's been talk about reforming workers' compensation. Do you see that happening? If so, how will that affect your company?

The question of workers' compensation reform is long standing. The reality is that it is difficult to find a common ground among businesses and injured employees. Recent studies by the Workers' Compensation Research Institute indicate a higher level of attorney involvement in Missouri than many other states, as well as a disproportionately high number of permanent disability settlements. The best reforms would balance some cost relief for employers without imposing hardship on legitimately injured employees. Regardless of any reforms, MEM's goal will always be to provide service to Missouri employers and appropriately execute Missouri's workers' compensation law.

What's the best part of your job?

I get to work with the highest quality insurance professionals I have known in my career.

Tell us about your family.

My wife of 25 years, Peggy, is an investigator for the Division of Family Services. I have four beautiful daughters: Megan, 22; Darby, 18; Kaylin, 14; and Molly, 5. We moved into the Springfield area six years ago and love it!

What are your hobbies and spare-time pursuits?

I enjoy any time I can get out on a river in a canoe or kayak. I also enjoy motorcycling on the two-lane blacktop the Ozarks is famous for. Living in the Ozarks is ideal for both those pursuits. I just need more hours in the day!