Key drivers of the premium hike, according to insurers, include the rising cost of health services, the expiration of the enhanced premium tax credits, and some federal regulatory changes.
New West Health–Gallup data show fewer than half of Americans can consistently afford care and prescriptions, with widening disparities across income, age, and racial groups.
As medical and pharmacy expenses climb, large employers are adjusting plan design, limiting drug spending growth and expanding targeted support like caregiving and financial wellness benefits.
About 6% of the plan participants were using the weight-loss drugs. Covering GLP-1s, for an enrollee who took the drug, cost the plans surveyed an average of $7,400 per year.
"Employers must now prepare for dual compliance at both federal and state levels, and advisors play a critical role in ensuring they're ready," said Wes Hill, vice president, regulatory affairs, for RxBenefits.
