WTW survey: U.S. employers expect healthcare costs to rise 11.1% in 2027, shifting more to workers
Key points
- Employers expect 2027 healthcare costs to rise 11.1% before plan changes and 9.7% after
- 85% plan or consider shifting costs to employees by 2028, versus 44% today
- GLP-1 weight-loss drug coverage fell from 57% to 53%
WTW's 2026 Best Practices in Healthcare Survey, released October 28, found employers expect healthcare costs to rise 11.1% in 2027 before plan changes and 9.7% after plan changes. 85% of employers plan or consider shifting costs to employees through premium contributions by 2028, up from 44% today. Coverage of weight-loss GLP-1 drugs fell from 57% to 53%. The survey was conducted June through August and covered 471 employers with at least 100 employees.
Original report: HR Dive ↗Edited with AI assistance. Facts are based on official sources and original reports. For information only; not legal, immigration or insurance advice.