The latest research from benefits experts, Mercer Marsh Benefits (MMB), reveals three key trends driving the future of employer-provided healthcare globally.
Following a survey of 268 insurers across 67 markets conducted in June and July 2025, the research found:
1. Projected medical trends continues to be double digits in most markets: Insurers say that medical inflation and utilisation changes due to greater incidence of health conditions have the most significant impact on their 2026 medical trend rates.
2. Proactive management of health plan risk is a requirement for sustainable benefit programs: Four in ten (41%) insurers typically include an advocacy service for managing complex or chronic diseases under plans.
3. Benefits coverage for varied needs remains limited: 50% of insurers typically cover mental health screenings, despite employee demand, and just 16% are prioritising new programmes to support ageing employees.
Against this backdrop, proactive management of health plan risk has become crucial. Understanding these trends and their impact is key for employers to design healthcare plans that meet the needs of their business and employees.
Now is the time for employers to adopt strategic measures that can manage costs and optimise spending to protect plan sustainability.
Keen to learn more? Download the full research to discover the top employer-sponsored healthcare trends globally for 2026, the three key HR focus areas, and how to optimise your health and benefits plans.
