MMB Health Trends 2026 

Employer-provided health plans face intense pressure as the medical trend rate is projected to reach 12.5% in 2026, or close to six times the inflation rate in Asia. Underlying cost drivers include increased utilization from higher incidence of health conditions and advanced technologies. 

Through our Health Trends global research of 268 insurers across 67 markets, including 86 insurers in Asia, learn the top challenges and opportunities for employer-provided health and benefits with these three key trends.

Understanding these trends and their impact is key for employers, allowing them to design healthcare plans that meet the needs of businesses and employees. 

• Get a clear view of the top trends for employer sponsored healthcare for your region and market as you plan for 2026.
• Learn the three key areas requiring HR professionals’ actions to better prepare for the year ahead.
• Take action to effectively adapt your health and benefits plans to optimize value for your business and your employees. 

63% of insurers in Asia anticipate reductions in coverage to manage costs in 2026. However, keeping health plans affordable is not just about cutting costs — it’s about building long-term sustainability. With better cost management, dollars saved can be directed back into health plans, creating benefits that all employees will use, trust, and value.

Now is the time for employers to adopt strategic measures that can manage costs and optimise spending to sustain and protect healthcare plans. 

The goal is clear: to effectively manage risk and cost, improve affordability, expand protection, and widen the scope of benefits to better meet employee needs. Here’s what you need to know.