Lower spike in healthcare costs predicted in Wisconsin

Large employers in Wisconsin expect their healthcare costs to increase 3.7% in 2008, a rate lower than medical inflation and lower than the 6.1% national average, according to an analysis by benefits consulting firm Towers Perrin. Healthcare costs in Wisconsin haven't risen at a lower rate than medical inflation in the past decade, said Towers Perrin representatives. Towers Perrin attributed the recent gains to an array of moves, such as higher deductibles to company clinics and wellness programs that encourage people to eat better, exercise more, not smoke, and take other steps to remain healthy.