Washington, D.C. – August 8, 2025, The federal health policy commission created under President Donald Trump is on track to miss its first major deadline, according to multiple officials familiar with the process. The panel, tasked with delivering a comprehensive plan to overhaul key aspects of the U.S. healthcare system, was expected to submit its report to the White House this month.

The commission, composed of public health experts, agency leaders, and private sector representatives, was formed earlier this year to evaluate cost-saving measures, expand access to preventive care, and identify ways to reduce reliance on foreign-made pharmaceuticals. Its findings were intended to feed into broader health reforms under the administration’s “America First” healthcare agenda.

Reasons for the Delay

Several people close to the commission’s work say the delay stems from logistical challenges and policy disagreements. Subcommittees working on drug pricing, Medicare payment reform, and telehealth policy have reportedly struggled to finalize consensus recommendations.

An unnamed senior administration official indicated that the group is “close to completion” but needs more time to ensure its proposals are workable and politically viable.

Impact on Policy Timeline

The missed deadline could push back planned legislative action until late 2025 or early 2026. Congressional allies had hoped to review the commission’s recommendations before the fall session to begin drafting related bills. The delay may also affect the rollout of the administration’s Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) initiative, which shares overlapping goals.

White House Response

A White House spokesperson confirmed the delay but downplayed concerns, noting that “quality and thoroughness matter more than speed” when developing reforms with nationwide implications. The spokesperson added that the final report will still be delivered to President Trump “in the near future.”