Whitepaper:

Howden Employee Benefits Global Employee Health report 2026

Across Asia, the employee health landscape is undergoing rapid transformation, even as medical costs continue to climb.

Employees are navigating increasingly complex care journeys (eg, long waiting times, more out‑of‑pocket costs, and concerns around mental health). Meanwhile, employers are working hard to balance rising expenses with the need to support a changing workforce.

Against this backdrop, Howden’s Global Employee Health Report 2026 reveals clear shifts in expectations, behaviours, and risks that every organisation should be paying attention to.

Here are the top three takeaways from the whitepaper:

1. Asia’s medical cost surge is outpacing the world: With medical inflation hitting 11.4% above general inflation, Asia faces the steepest cost rise globally. Chronic illnesses, cancer, and cardiovascular disease continue to be the biggest cost drivers.
2. Employee experience is under stress: Up to 28% of employees report conditions worsening due to long waits, and 50% say cost prevents access to treatment. Mental health is the top condition cited by employees, yet stigma inhibits care for many.
3. AI is set to redefine healthcare, but trust must be earned: While 64% of employees would trust AI in their healthcare journey, scepticism remains. Employers expect the highest value from AI in claims processing, predictive analytics and smart diagnosis.

As the region faces escalating costs and evolving employee needs, organisations that adapt early will be best positioned to build sustainable health strategies. Enjoy the read!