Amazon is investing $1 billion to reduce healthcare costs for full-time employees, the company said Sept. 17.
The retail giant will lower the weekly cost of its basic employer-sponsored health plan from more than $7 to $5, while maintaining its “Day 1” coverage policy for U.S. fulfillment and transportation employees and their families. In addition, the company will lower co-pays for primary care visits to $5, down from $40.
On average, employees are expected to save 28% on weekly premiums and spend 88% less when visiting a physician, according to a Sept. 17 news release.
These changes will take effect during the 2026 benefits cycle.
Amazon’s move highlights growing competition among large employers to offer more generous health benefits. For health systems, the move could increase demand for primary and preventive services in concentrated markets while pushing affordability to the forefront, fueling competition among employers and raising patient expectations for cost-effective care.
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