Bringing Employee Benefits Full Circle

News Brief: Report Finds Weight Loss Drugs Key Driver of 2025 Health Care Cost Increase

megaphone, announcement, speaker

A recent Business Group on Health (BGH) survey found that heightened interest and spending on glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) drugs is a major driver of rising health care costs in 2025. Americans’ interest in GLP-1 drugs is increasingly pressuring employers’ budgets. On average, GLP-1 treatment costs around $1,000 per individual each month. The medications were traditionally used to treat diabetes but are now in demand for weight loss. When considering covering weight loss drugs, many employers are concerned that they must be used for extended periods to be effective, requiring a long-term commitment.

An estimated 9% of the U.S. population could be on GLP-1s by2030, according to an analysis by investment bank J.P. Morgan.

Click here to learn more and download this Infographic

Legal Update: 5th Circuit Strikes Down DOL’s Tip Credit Final Rule

weighting scale, equal-arm balance, symbol

On Aug. 23, 2024, in Restaurant Law Center v. U.S. Department of Labor, the U.S.Court of Appeals for the 5th Circuit vacated the U.S. Department of Labor’s(DOL) 2021 final rule that updated tip credit regulations under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). This rule is known as the 80/20/30 rule.

Click here to learn more and download this Legal Update

Mental Health Minute (September)

mental health, wooden tiles, scrabble pieces
Many Americans Remain Unfamiliar With 988

The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline (988 Lifeline) was launched nationwide in July 2022. The three-digit dialing code replaced the original 1-800 number to make it easier to remember and access. Like
dialing 911 for medical emergencies, people in emotional distress or suicidal crisis can call or text 988 to connect with counselors who will listen, provide support and connect them to resources.

A High-fat Diet May Increase Anxiety

When feeling stressed, you may instinctively reach for junk food, which is often high in fat. However, a new study at the University of Colorado Boulder revealed that consuming high fat foods might actually worsen anxiety symptoms. Researchers believe this is happening due to the connection between gut bacteria and brain chemicals that regulate anxiety levels.

View and download Mental Health Minute

National Recovery Month (September)

healing, treatment, to tend to

September is National Recovery Month. Recovering from addiction is a process of change that can improve wellness, increase control and help you reach your full potential. Use this month to reflect on your health and the goals you want to accomplish.

View and download National Safety Month