Major Companies Plan Cuts to Health Benefits for 2027

In a significant shift, major companies such as Walt Disney, Starbucks, and Deloitte are planning to reduce health benefits for employees in 2027. This decision comes as medical costs are projected to rise sharply, with estimates indicating a 9% increase in commercial healthcare costs.

Walt Disney will discontinue spousal coverage for employees whose partners have access to their own employer's plans. Starbucks has raised health insurance costs for some employees and will stop covering certain weight loss medications. Additionally, Bloomberg will require employees to contribute to monthly premiums for the first time, while Deloitte is cutting paid parental leave and eliminating reimbursement for adoption and surrogacy.

These changes reflect a broader trend, with a survey indicating that 59% of employers plan to implement cost-cutting measures in health benefits. As companies shift more healthcare expenses to employees, many may face increased deductions from their paychecks, raising concerns about affordability and access to necessary medical care.