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Health Insurance Costs Soar as Wages Stagnate: Study

12/8/2025

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Summary

Story summary

From 1999 to 2024, U.S. health insurance premiums rose, about three times faster than wages, per JAMA Network Open.
The rise stems mainly from hospital consolidation, which allows price increases above costs.
Hospital CEOs are incentivized to prioritize profit over quality care.
Employers face a projected 9.5% rise in health insurance costs in 2026.
Tiered copayment plans could reduce costs without sacrificing quality.

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Story summary

From 1999 to 2024, U.S. health insurance premiums rose, about three times faster than wages, per JAMA Network Open.
The rise stems mainly from hospital consolidation, which allows price increases above costs.
Hospital CEOs are incentivized to prioritize profit over quality care.
Employers face a projected 9.5% rise in health insurance costs in 2026.
Tiered copayment plans could reduce costs without sacrificing quality.