Becker's Healthcare August 14, 2025
Andrew Cass

Employers are expecting a median healthcare cost increase of 10% in 2026, according to a survey from the International Foundation of Employee Benefit Plans.

The results reflect the responses from 150 corporate and single employers surveyed between July 30 and Aug. 7.

1. A similar survey conducted last year projected a median increase of 8% for 2025, according to an Aug. 14 news release.

2. Employers said the top factors contributing to a rise in medical plan costs are:

  • Catastrophic claims – 31% (up from 20% last year)
  • Specialty/costly prescription drugs (up from 20%)
  • Utilization due to chronic health conditions –...

Today's Sponsors

Venturous
ZeOmega

Today's Sponsor

Venturous

 
Topics: Employer, Healthcare System, Pricing / Spending, Survey / Study, Trends
Why cover GLP-1s? They’ll lower employer healthcare costs, study says
Small business health insurance coverage at risk as costs rise, EBRI finds
8 Values That Are Redefining The Workplace Of The Late 2020s
Employer Health Costs: Amid Continual Increases the Cost of Doing Nothing is Too High
Leadership, employee experience big issues for employers in 2026

Share Article