Experts at Aon Consulting say employees may notice substantial changes to their medical plan for 2010, including a drastic increase in worker contributions. However, according to a new survey, companies are trying to offset these rising health care costs by expanding wellness programs to promote a healthier and more productive workforce.

In its "2009 Benefits & Talent Survey," Aon Consulting found 70 percent of employers plan to increase employee contributions, and 67 percent expect to raise deductibles, co-pays, coinsurance or out-of-pocket maximums next year.

"As in year's past, many employers are expecting to shift additional health care costs to employees in 2010 to share the burden of double-digit rate increases," said John Zern, U.S. Health & Benefits Practice Director with Aon Consulting in a statement. "However, it may be more dramatic next year, as many organizations try to avoid taking other drastic measures such as layoffs or salary freezes."