Actuaries predict continued rise in healthcare costs for next year

A recent survey of actuaries from 27 health plans that serve both employer groups and individual exchange markets shows early signs of where health-care spending is headed.

The respondents expect overall costs to keep climbing throughout the coming year, reflecting ongoing pressure from factors such as drug prices and service utilization.

These trends could influence budgeting decisions for employers and insurers, and may shape the environment in which pharmaceutical companies set prices and negotiate reimbursements.