Employers Anticipate Daunting 9% Increase in Healthcare Costs in 2026

Healthcare Costs on the Rise: What Employers are Facing

Healthcare costs are entering uncharted waters as large employers predict a daunting 9% hike in 2026, marking the highest expected increase in over a decade. This insight stems from a survey conducted by the Business Group on Health (BGH), which gathered responses from 121 employers covering 11.6 million individuals worldwide. The survey highlights a troubling trend for both employers and employees, especially in the context of ongoing economic challenges.

The Drivers Behind Rising Costs

The primary driver fueling this cost uptick is pharmacy spending, which is projected to increase significantly—by an estimated 11% to 12% by 2026. Medications, particularly expensive ones like GLP-1s, used for conditions including obesity and diabetes, account for a rising percentage of healthcare budgets. In fact, pharmacy costs alone made up 24% of employer healthcare spending in 2024, a stark rise from 21% in previous years. As Ellen Kelsay, president and CEO of the BGH, notes, "Concerns about pharmacy trend are nothing new, but they’ve gotten worse." Employers must grapple with the decision to cover these high-cost drugs amid increasing demand and limited funding.

Historical Context: A Decade of Rising Costs

Over the past few years, employers have faced consecutive increases in healthcare expenditures that surpassed their initial forecasts. This trend leaves them in a precarious position as they begin 2025, already dealing with substantial cost overruns from prior years. Kelsay emphasizes that underestimating healthcare costs, especially after two years of severe hikes, presents a troubling scenario for companies trying to plan budgets amidst inflationary pressures.

A Closer Look at GLP-1s: A Powerful but Costly Medication

GLP-1 medications, such as Wegovy and Mounjaro, have proven efficacy in weight loss and diabetes management yet carry monthly costs that can exceed $1,000. The soaring demand for these treatments indicates a growing public interest in addressing obesity—a condition currently affecting a significant portion of the U.S. population. The BGH estimates that by 2030, around 30 million Americans, or about 9% of the U.S. population, could be on these drugs. Consequently, employers are left weighing the benefits of covering such medications against the financial implications.

Implications for Health and Wellness

With healthcare costs rising, employers across industries must reevaluate their health benefits. Many are looking toward community resources that can help manage wellness effectively. Health and wellness centers play a pivotal role in preventive care, helping employees maintain optimal health and potentially reducing the need for costly medications. This shift aligns with a larger trend towards lifestyle medicine, where employers promote healthier living through various initiatives.

Employers Taking Action: Strategy Changes and Community Engagement

Employers are not just passively receiving this information; many are proactively seeking solutions to mitigate these cost increases. Some employers plan to adjust their health plans to lower projected hikes from 9% to around 7.6%, reflecting a commitment to not burden employees with excessive costs. Additionally, many employers are increasingly focused on engaging with local health and wellness businesses to provide diverse options for their employees, from fitness classes and nutrition advice to stress management programs.

Moving Forward: Predictions and Insights

As we progress toward 2026, the implications of rising healthcare costs are profound. There’s an urgent need for employers to think strategically about their health plans. Cost-effective and preventive approaches can make a difference. By investing in community health and wellness initiatives, employers not only support their employees' physical health but also foster a culture of well-being that benefits everyone in the organization.

Your Next Steps in Community Health and Wellness

In light of this pressure on healthcare costs, now is the time for both employees and employers to intentionally engage with local health and wellness programs. Consider exploring wellness events available in your area. Participating in these programs not only empowers individuals to take charge of their health but can also potentially reduce the financial burden on employers long-term.