Premiums to pinch wallets

The combined average premiums and out-of-pocket expenses for healthcare is expected to increase by about 9% annually, or $3,826, next year. Contributions to premiums are expected to rise by 8%, while out-of-pocket expenses should increase by just over 10%. A study by Hewitt Associates found that at the same time, companies will see health insurance costs increase by only 6.4% annually, which amounts to about $8,800.