Costly GLP-1 Coverage Squeezes Employer Health Plans | JQJO

GLP-1 weight-loss drugs are surging in popularity at large employers, but steep costs are straining budgets, KFF's Employer Health Benefits Survey finds. Coverage for obesity rose to 43% among firms with 5,000+ workers, versus 16% at mid-size companies, yet nearly 60% of large employers report higher-than-expected use and two-thirds cite significant prescription-spending impacts. Some are tightening eligibility or dropping coverage. Premiums are climbing: family coverage averages $27,000 and individual $9,300, with warnings that 2026 could bring further increases. "A quiet alarm bell" is sounding, the group says.