Cost remains the top priority for employers, but meaningful change remains limited
Q2 2026 snapshot
While organizations are actively exploring a range of cost management strategies, adoption of higher-impact solutions remains limited. Employers are weighing potential savings against disruption, operational complexity, and employee experience — often resulting in incremental adjustments rather than structural change.
2026 EMPLOYER BENEFIT PLAN PRIORITIES
Source: 2026 Lockton National Benefits Survey
At the same time, market dynamics are evolving amid ongoing transitions & volatility
Pharmacy pricing models and stop loss risk dynamics are shifting, requiring more deliberate decision-making. Stop loss renewals are expected to increase up to 30%, reflecting continued pressure from high-cost claims and increasing variability in risk. In pharmacy, rebates are declining as drug pricing models evolve, which requires additional time and resources around pharmacy procurement and consulting.
The result is a more complex, higher-pressure, and less predictable cost environment, where managing total cost requires a more intentional strategy.
