94% of employers said controlling medical costs is important in 2026, according to Marsh McLennan Agency’s sixth annual benefits survey, even as retention and engagement remained the top workplace priority.
50% of employers named retention their most important HR initiative for the next two years, with professional development, career advancement and flexible work arrangements still central to keeping staff.
39% are changing medical carriers, 35% are adding targeted cost-control programs, and 29% are shifting more costs to workers through higher medical plan contributions.
More than half are considering higher deductibles, coinsurance or out-of-pocket maximums over the next 12 months as they brace for further benefit cost increases.
36% offer employee well-being plans, leaving disease-management support a gap even though 60% of the U.S. workforce has at least one chronic condition.