With U.S. healthcare costs projected to rise by up to 8% in 2025, employers are facing a new challenge: how to manage the growing cost of GLP-1 medications like Ozempic®, Wegovy® and Mounjaro®. Originally approved to treat Type 2 diabetes, these drugs are increasingly prescribed for weight loss — and they aren’t cheap.  [Learn more in our Healthcare Cost Spotlight]   GLP-1 considerations for health plans  A Per a Business Group on Health (BGH) survey , new data shows more than half of large employers say GLP-1s are “greatly” driving up health plan costs — and demand is rising fast. With over 100 similar drugs in development and more use cases emerging, from treating obesity to sleep apnea and heart disease, this trend isn’t slowing down anytime soon.  To control costs, employers are exploring options like:  requiring BMI thresholds and prior authorization;  pairing GLP-1 coverage with lifestyle or wellness programs;  adjusting cost-sharing arrangements...

2024 Open Enrollment: 3 Preparation Strategies With the 2024 open enrollment season fast approaching, employers have an opportunity to develop attractive benefits offerings and proactively communicate with employees. Early preparation can help show employees they’re valued, convince top performers to stay in their current positions and attract new talent. Consider these three strategies to prepare for 2024 open enrollment: 1. Tailor benefits offerings Benefits offerings are one of the top reasons employees join companies and stay at their jobs. That’s why it’s critical for employers to speak with employees about which perks provide the most value. Adding or tweaking a few benefits options could be the difference between retaining and losing top performers. 2. Determine key messaging Benefits communications should account for employees’ desire to feel safe. Thus, key messaging should demonstrate how workplace offerings can protect employees. Outlining different benefits offerings can he...