Employers expect healthcare costs to rise 10% annually in 2026 and 2027, Brown & Brown finds
BRO•Brown & Brown's survey found employers expect healthcare costs to rise an average of 10% annually in 2026 and 2027. Cost control is the top benefits priority for 44% of employers.
1. Employer cost priorities
Brown & Brown's survey found employers expect healthcare costs to rise an average of 10% annually in 2026 and 2027. Controlling organizational health benefit costs ranked as the top priority for 44% of employers, ahead of employee cost containment. Benefits audits, transparent pharmacy benefit manager arrangements and stronger data analytics each feature in 83% of employers' cost-containment strategies.
2. Coverage and well-being
GLP-1 weight-loss coverage extends to 45% of respondents, and more than 77% of that group impose restrictions. Well-being programs are part of 78% of employers' healthcare strategies; 79% of that group plan to increase related budgets.
