Marsh's 2026 National Survey of Employer-Sponsored Health Plans projects that total health benefit cost per employee will rise 8.2% on average in 2027, the highest increase since 2003, even after planned cost-reduction measures. The survey, based on responses from over 1,800 US employers, found that costs would increase 11% if no action were taken, marking the fifth consecutive year of elevated growth. Key drivers include GLP-1 medications, which account for a full percentage point of the overall cost growth, along with AI-enabled billing software and out-of-network payment awards under the No Surprises Act. In response, 59% of employers plan cost-cutting changes, such as higher deductibles, and about two-thirds of large employers expect to increase employees' premium share, potentially raising paycheck deductions above the 8.2% average. Marsh suggests employees explore alternative plan options during open enrollment, as over a third of large employers plan to offer non-traditional plans like variable copay plans, which can lower costs while guiding members to high-quality providers.
Marsh & McLennan Companies, Inc.Marsh's survey projects 8.2% rise in employer health costs, highlighting demand for its brokerage and consulting services.
Meta Platforms Inc.