Healthcare costs seen rising 10% in 2009

Healthcare costs are expected to rise more than 10% into 2009, according to a survey of insurers by Aon Consulting Worldwide. The increase is the smallest Aon has seen in six years, however, and experts say it shows that efforts to tame costs may be paying off. Health insurers have offered disease management programs and encouraged the use of cheaper generic drugs to help contain costs, and employer wellness programs also have played a role in the cost decreases, experts say.