New Update: Healthcare Costs Increasing by Over 60% in Some States. Will you be impacted?

Gilead Sciences Employees: Expect Rising Health Insurance Costs in 2026

Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for Gilead Sciences Gilead Sciences, a leading biopharmaceutical company known for its innovative therapies, typically partners with various healthcare providers and networks to facilitate patient access to its medicines. Specific details about Gilead's healthcare providers can vary by region and therapeutic area, but they often collaborate with hospitals, specialty clinics, pharmacies, and physicians nationwide to ensure effective treatment and management of diseases, particularly in areas like HIV, oncology, and liver diseases. Potential Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026 In 2026, healthcare costs are anticipated to rise significantly due to a combination of factors affecting the Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace. With some states projecting premium increases of over 60%, the expiration of enhanced federal subsidies could lead to over 22 million enrollees experiencing out-of-pocket premium spikes exceeding 75%. Contributing to these increases are escalating medical costs driven by inflation, higher utilization of healthcare services, and record profitability reported by major insurers, which are amplifying price pressures on consumers seeking affordable healthcare solutions. Click here to learn more

'Rising health care costs underscore the importance for Gilead Sciences employees to regularly review their benefits and long-term financial strategy,' says Paul Bergeron, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement.

'With health care expenses climbing faster than wages, Gilead Sciences employees should proactively evaluate their coverage options to help protect their long-term financial well-being,' says Tyson Mavar, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement.

In this article, we will discuss:

Why health insurance costs may rise in 2026.
What changes could impact Affordable Care Act and employer plans.
How to review your options during open enrollment.

Health insurance expenses may soon climb even higher for millions of households, including those of Gilead Sciences employees. Some people have even received advance notice of increases through 2026, adding to concerns that affordable insurance options are becoming more limited.

If you are one of the approximately 24 million Americans enrolled in an ACA marketplace plan, ¹ be aware that significant shifts could occur soon. If enhanced ACA premium tax credits expire after 2025, the average family premium could rise 114%, jumping from $888 in 2025 to $1,904 in 2026. ¹

Rising expenses are also impacting those covered through employer plans, including employees at Gilead Sciences. Surveys indicate that employer-sponsored health insurance costs are estimated to go up by 6% to 9% in 2026—the biggest increase in more than 15 years. ² As companies continue shifting more of these expenses to workers, payroll deductions and out-of-pocket costs are on the rise. Health care cost growth is even outpacing wage growth, ³ adding pressure on family budgets.

Why Are Prices Increasing?

Many factors contribute to the upward trend, ³ including:

- A surge in medical visits delayed during the pandemic
- The growing number of older Americans requiring ongoing care
- Continued high incidence of chronic illnesses such as diabetes and heart disease
- Shortages and rising labor costs in the health care workforce
- Higher demand for services combined with fewer workers
Competitive differences across regions also influence costs—some markets have many insurance options, while others have only one or two participating carriers.

What to Do During Open Enrollment

Review your current health care usage. If you typically use fewer services, a high-deductible plan paired with a Health Savings Account might lower monthly premiums and offer certain tax advantages.
Plan ahead for anticipated medical needs. If you expect more care next year, a plan with higher monthly payments but lower deductibles may help spread costs more evenly.
Explore additional coverage options. Depending on eligibility, Medicaid, CHIP, or catastrophic plans may help if employer or marketplace premiums increase sharply.
Stay flexible while enrollment is open. You can modify your plan through the end of open enrollment if your situation or subsidy rules change.

The Bigger Picture

Health care decisions are playing a larger role in long-term planning for Gilead Sciences households. Rising medical costs can influence both current spending and future retirement readiness.

At The Retirement Group, we assist individuals in planning for health care costs both before and after retirement. To talk about available plan types and tax-advantaged options as open enrollment approaches, call (800) 900-5867.

Want Assistance Reviewing Your Options?

Health plan decisions affect more than just next year—they may also shape your future income expectations, especially if you’re planning to leave Gilead Sciences in the near future.

You don’t need to navigate this alone. Before open enrollment deadlines end, The Retirement Group can help you examine your health care strategy alongside your retirement plan.

Want Assistance Reviewing Your Options?

Health plan decisions affect more than just next year—they may also shape your future retirement income needs, especially for those leaving Gilead Sciences in the coming years.

You don’t need to sort through this alone. Before open enrollment deadlines end, The Retirement Group can help you assess your health care strategy and retirement plan.
Call (800) 900-5867 to get started.

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Articles you may find interesting:

Sources:

1. Lo, Justin, and Larry Levitt. Early Indications of the Impact of the Enhanced Premium Tax Credit Expiration on 2026 Marketplace Premiums . Kaiser Family Foundation, Sept. 2025, www.kff.org/affordable-care-act/aca-marketplace-premium-payments-would-more-than-double-on-average-next-year-if-enhanced-premium-tax-credits-expire .

2. Mercer Insights Team. “Employers Prepare for the Highest Health Benefit Cost Increase in 15 Years.” Mercer , 3 Sept. 2025, www.mercer.com/en-us/insights/us-health-news/employers-prepare-for-the-highest-health-benefit-cost-increase-in-15-years

3. “Why Are Healthcare Costs Rising?” Marsh McLennan Agency , 5 Sept. 2025, www.marshmma.com/us/insights/details/rising-health-care-costs.html .

4. “Five Key Changes to ACA Marketplaces Amid Uncertainty Over Premium Tax Credits.” Center on Budget and Policy Priorities , 2025, www.cbpp.org/research/health/five-key-changes-to-aca-marketplaces-amid-uncertainty-over-premium-tax-credit .

5. Health Care Workforce Shortages. NIHCM Foundation, 4 Mar. 2025, nihcm.org/newsletter/rising-healthcare-workforce-shortage.

How does Gilead's approach to employee benefits evolve to ensure comprehensive health coverage for full-time and part-time employees, and how do these benefits align with industry standards? Additionally, considering the competitive landscape, what specific initiatives does Gilead undertake to maintain and enhance its health benefits offering?

Gilead ensures comprehensive health coverage for both full-time and part-time employees by offering competitive medical, dental, and vision plans. Full-time employees, as well as part-time employees working at least 30 hours a week, are eligible for a range of health benefits, including coverage for spouses, domestic partners, and dependent children. This benefits package includes life and disability insurance, health savings accounts, and wellness services such as biometric screenings and fitness reimbursements, aligning with industry standards(Gilead_2016_Company_Peo…).

In what ways does Gilead's professional development program contribute to the personal and career growth of its employees? How does Gilead gauge the effectiveness of these development initiatives, and what feedback mechanisms are in place to continually improve the offerings?

Gilead’s professional development program contributes to employees' personal and career growth through extensive training opportunities, leadership development programs, and an MBA program in partnership with Golden Gate University. Gilead monitors the effectiveness of these initiatives through completion metrics, feedback surveys, and by tracking career progression. A continuous feedback loop ensures that employee development programs evolve based on participants’ experiences and business needs(Gilead_2016_Company_Peo…).

Gilead emphasizes a pay-for-performance model in its compensation structure. How does this model operate in practice, and in what ways are performance metrics tied to employee compensation at Gilead? Moreover, how does the company ensure transparency and fairness in its pay practices?

Gilead operates a pay-for-performance model, where employee compensation is directly tied to individual performance evaluations and business results. Regular reviews ensure that compensation remains fair and competitive, with transparency maintained through structured performance assessments. Gilead promotes pay equity, regularly reviewing compensation practices to ensure fairness and alignment with market conditions(Gilead_2016_Company_Peo…).

Given the unique challenges associated with employee parental leave, how does Gilead support employees who are navigating this transition? Furthermore, how are Gilead's policies aligned with or surpassing industry standards regarding parental leave and adoption benefits?

Gilead supports employees during parental leave transitions by offering 12 weeks of paid leave for new parents in the U.S., along with adoption benefits and reimbursements of up to $5,000. This benefit, extended to both U.S. and international employees, ensures legislative compliance and alignment with market standards, often surpassing industry norms(Gilead_2016_Company_Peo…).

With the increasing importance of mental health support in the workplace, how does Gilead's Employee Assistance Program (EAP) address the diverse wellness needs of its employees? In what ways does Gilead promote the utilization of these services to ensure engagement and effectiveness?

Gilead’s Employee Assistance Program (EAP) addresses a broad range of wellness needs, including mental health support, counseling, and legal or financial assistance. The company promotes these services through internal communications and wellness campaigns, ensuring employees are aware of and engage with these offerings, which are designed to provide confidential and comprehensive support(Gilead_2016_Company_Peo…).

How does Gilead foster an inclusive work environment that values diversity? What specific programs and initiatives are in place to promote inclusion, and how does Gilead measure the success of these diversity initiatives?

Gilead fosters an inclusive work environment through Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) and diversity initiatives aimed at professional development and community engagement. The company measures the success of its inclusion efforts through employee feedback, participation in diversity programs, and performance management processes that now include “inclusion” as a core value(Gilead_2016_Company_Peo…).

Considering Gilead's Employee Stock Purchase Program (ESPP), how do the company's policies encourage employee investment in Gilead? What benefits do employees gain from participating in the ESPP, and how does it contribute to their overall financial well-being?

Gilead’s Employee Stock Purchase Program (ESPP) encourages investment by offering U.S. employees the ability to contribute 1-15% of their pay to purchase Gilead stock at a 15% discount. This program helps employees build financial security and aligns their interests with the company's success, contributing to overall financial well-being(Gilead_2016_Company_Peo…).

What role does volunteerism play within Gilead's corporate culture, and how does the company facilitate employee engagement in community service initiatives? Additionally, how does participation in these programs impact employee satisfaction and retention rates?

Volunteerism is integral to Gilead’s corporate culture, with the company supporting employee involvement in community service through its Gilead Volunteer Community. These activities align with Gilead’s mission and values, and participation positively impacts employee satisfaction and retention by fostering a sense of purpose and community engagement(Gilead_2016_Company_Peo…).

How does Gilead ensure that its benefits package remains competitive within the biotechnology industry? What strategies does Gilead employ to regularly assess and enhance its offerings to meet the evolving needs of its workforce?

Gilead ensures its benefits package remains competitive by regularly reviewing and benchmarking against industry standards. The company adjusts offerings to meet evolving employee needs, particularly in areas like health and wellness, retirement plans, and work-life balance, ensuring that its benefits are both market-competitive and supportive of long-term employee well-being(Gilead_2016_Company_Peo…).

For employees seeking more information about Gilead's benefits and retirement options, what are the best channels to contact Gilead? How does Gilead ensure that employees have access to clear and timely information regarding their benefits, and what resources are available to assist them during the retirement process?

Employees seeking more information about Gilead’s benefits and retirement options can access resources through the company’s HR portals, internal communication channels, or by contacting HR directly. Gilead provides clear, timely information and offers comprehensive resources such as retirement planning consultations and financial wellness programs to assist employees during the retirement process(Gilead_2016_Company_Peo…).

With the current political climate we are in it is important to keep up with current news and remain knowledgeable about your benefits.

Name of Pension Plan: Gilead Sciences does not appear to have a traditional defined benefit pension plan as of the latest information for 2022, 2023, and 2024. Instead, the company emphasizes its 401(k) plan as a primary retirement benefit. Pension Formula and Qualification: Since there is no traditional defined benefit pension plan, there are no specific formulas or age/service qualifications related to a pension plan. Name of 401(k) Plan: Gilead Sciences 401(k) Plan 401(k) Plan Eligibility: Employees are eligible to participate in the Gilead Sciences 401(k) Plan upon meeting certain criteria, including a minimum period of employment which is typically 30 days. Contribution Details: Gilead Sciences offers a matching contribution to the 401(k) Plan, with the company matching a percentage of employee contributions up to a specific limit.

Restructuring and Layoffs: In 2023, Gilead Sciences announced a significant restructuring plan aimed at optimizing its operational efficiency. This included a reduction of approximately 5% of its workforce. The company stated that these changes were part of a broader strategy to streamline operations and better position itself for long-term growth amidst evolving market conditions. Source: Business Insider. Importance: Given the current economic volatility and changes in the investment landscape, understanding these developments is crucial for stakeholders to assess the impact on company performance and stability. The restructuring is also relevant due to its potential effects on employee benefits and overall corporate strategy.

Gilead Sciences Stock Options and RSUs Stock Options and RSUs Overview: Gilead Sciences has offered stock options and Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) as part of its compensation package. For Gilead Sciences, stock options are typically granted to executives and key employees based on individual performance and company goals. RSUs at Gilead Sciences are generally awarded to a broader range of employees, including those in key roles, to align their interests with shareholder value.

1. Company Official Website Gilead Sciences Official Website: Gilead Sciences Benefits Summary: Gilead Sciences offers a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, and vision coverage. They provide options for both HMO and PPO plans, and there are additional wellness programs and resources for employees. 2. Glassdoor Gilead Sciences on Glassdoor: Glassdoor - Gilead Sciences Benefits Summary: Employees on Glassdoor report strong health benefits including generous health insurance coverage, wellness programs, and an Employee Assistance Program (EAP). The company also offers flexible spending accounts (FSAs) and health savings accounts (HSAs). 3. Indeed Gilead Sciences on Indeed: Indeed - Gilead Sciences Benefits Summary: Indeed highlights that Gilead Sciences provides extensive healthcare benefits including medical, dental, and vision insurance, with coverage options for family members. Employees appreciate the company's focus on health and wellness. 4. Employee Benefits News Employee Benefits News - Gilead Sciences: Employee Benefits News Summary: Recent news indicates that Gilead Sciences has been updating its benefits packages to include more mental health support and telemedicine services. They are also expanding their wellness programs to address holistic health needs. 5. HR Dive HR Dive - Gilead Sciences Benefits: HR Dive Summary: HR Dive reports that Gilead Sciences has introduced new benefits in response to the evolving healthcare landscape. This includes enhanced telehealth options and increased coverage for mental health services.

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For more information you can reach the plan administrator for Gilead Sciences at , ; or by calling them at .

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