Partner Highlight: Spooner Risk Control Services

The Spooner Risk Control family of companies was founded in 1975 when Tom Spooner transformed his youngest son’s bedroom into an office, marking the beginning of a journey that would grow to address a wide range of challenges facing employers today. Originally a labor relations and HR consulting firm, the company has evolved to offer comprehensive solutions that meet the changing needs of businesses.

Spooner’s involvement in workers’ compensation began in 1981 when a client requested Tom’s assistance at an Industrial Commission hearing. The client felt they had paid enough for a particular workers’ compensation claim, but the Hearing Officer did not agree, suggesting Tom familiarize himself with the Ohio Revised Code Workers’ Compensation book to better understand the complexities of the system. Nearly 50 years later, the goal of protecting and assisting businesses remains at the heart of Spooner’s mission. In 2017, Tom’s grandson, Joe Spooner, took on the role of president, ensuring the company’s core values continue to reflect these ideals.

The transition to a Third-Party Administrator (TPA) was a natural progression. Through careful analysis, it became evident that many factors contributing to inflated workers’ compensation costs—such as fraud, inappropriate medical treatment, excessive time off, and disability awards—could be prevented or managed effectively. Spooner’s proactive claims management approach focuses on monitoring activities closely and identifying potential issues early, minimizing unnecessary costs.

In 1997, Spooner Medical Administrators, the company’s sister organization, was approved as one of Ohio’s first workers’ compensation Managed Care Organizations (MCOs). These MCOs were designed to take over the medical management of claims from the Bureau of Workers’ Compensation (BWC). While the number of these firms has decreased over time, Spooner Medical Administrators remains one of just ten MCOs still in operation.

As clients’ needs evolved, Spooner Risk Control expanded its services. The same proactive management approach that had been successfully applied to workers’ compensation was adapted to include FMLA, unemployment, and absence management. When it became clear that Ohio’s monopolistic system did not fully serve every business, Spooner launched Surety HR in 2017, a Professional Employer Organization (PEO). Surety HR provides administrative solutions to employers and offers an option to participate in a self-insured workers’ compensation policy in Ohio.

For businesses facing employment-related challenges, Spooner Risk Control and its family of companies offer tailored solutions. Whether dealing with workers’ compensation, employee management, or other concerns, Spooner is ready to help. Reach out today to discover how partnering with Spooner can address your unique needs and help solve your business challenges.