Mercer Marsh Benefits – Health Trends, 2026

The main theme of the report is the analysis of trends in healthcare spending and strategies for managing employer-provided health insurance costs.

Key findings include: Healthcare trends are expected to grow at double-digit rates in most markets by 2026. There is a need for proactive risk management to ensure the sustainability of benefits programs. Existing plans often do not meet the needs of the modern workforce, particularly in areas such as mental health and support for an aging workforce. Managing high-cost cases is a priority measure for insurers over the next two years. 76% of insurers are concerned about inefficient and wasteful healthcare, making plans unaffordable.