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Edition 2026-09-18

POLITICS

Orlando Chamber CEO warns of rising health benefit costs as workforce expands

A leadership role at the Orlando Chamber of Commerce centers on sustaining business growth across Central Florida, where a healthy workforce directly supports economic activity.

By floridapolitics · 35d ago · Source: floridapolitics

Full article

A leadership role at the Orlando Chamber of Commerce centers on sustaining business growth across Central Florida, where a healthy workforce directly supports economic activity. Employers now confront an anticipated 6.7% increase in health benefit costs, forcing difficult decisions about absorbing expenses, shifting costs to employees, or reducing coverage. With more than 1,500 new residents arriving weekly and 80% of the workforce employed outside tourism, the region's economic diversification depends on maintaining competitive benefits. Small and mid-sized businesses face disproportionate pressure due to limited negotiating power compared to larger corporations. Rising prescription drug costs contribute significantly to premium growth, prompting calls for systemic solutions. Prime Therapeutics, a health services company headquartered in Orlando, emphasizes value-driven approaches to pharmacy benefits, supporting patients across more than 30 specialty disease categories. Its specialty pharmacy operations employ local workers and serve as a regional economic contributor. Executives at Prime argue that incentives, rather than intentions, should guide healthcare cost management. The company's presence in the local market offers employers an alternative benefit design option that aligns with patient needs and workforce stability. Behind every employer's cost challenge is a patient seeking care to remain employed and engaged in the community. A strong regional healthcare partner, such as Prime, can help balance cost pressures with access to necessary treatment. Scott Matthews serves as president and chair of the Orlando Chamber of Commerce.

Source transparency

Publisher
floridapolitics
Reliability
high
Published
9/18/2026, 7:22:00 AM
Retrieved
9/18/2026, 7:22:00 AM
Relevance
80%
Confidence
85%
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