The White House has no immediate plans to require insurance companies to cover in vitro fertilization (IVF), despite U.S. President Donald Trump’s campaign pledge to expand access to fertility treatments, according to The Washington Post.
Earlier this year, President Trump signed an executive order aimed at expanding IVF access and reducing treatment costs for Americans seeking fertility care. The order directed federal agencies to find ways to make the popular treatment more affordable and accessible. However, White House officials say legal constraints prevent them from mandating insurance coverage without Congressional approval.
While the administration maintains that increasing IVF access is still a policy priority, no legislation has been introduced in Congress to address the insurance coverage gap. Without such a bill, the federal government cannot compel private insurers to include IVF in their health plans.
IVF has become an increasingly sought-after solution for couples and individuals facing infertility, but the high cost—often exceeding $15,000 per cycle in the U.S.—remains a major barrier. Advocates argue that insurance mandates could help millions access treatment, while opponents cite concerns over cost implications for the healthcare system.
The issue has drawn renewed national attention following several state-level legislative battles over fertility treatment access. In some states, lawmakers have moved to protect or expand IVF coverage, while others have faced legal and political challenges that could limit availability.
Reuters was unable to independently verify the Washington Post report, and the White House did not respond to a request for comment. For now, the future of federally mandated IVF insurance coverage remains uncertain, leaving millions of hopeful parents in limbo as the debate over fertility rights and healthcare policy continues.