WASHINGTON

US President Donald Trump released the outline of a health care plan on Thursday that his administration claims will lower costs for Americans and "hold big insurance companies accountable."

"I am thrilled to announce my plan to lower health care prices for all Americans and truly make healthcare affordable again. We’re doing things that nobody’s ever been able to do, we’re calling it the Great Healthcare Plan," Trump said in a pre-recorded video message.

"Instead of putting the needs of big corporations and special interests first, our plan finally puts you first, and puts more money in your pocket. The government is going to pay the money directly to you. It goes to you, and then you take the money and buy health care," he added.

Trump is rolling out the proposal as federal subsidies under former President Barack Obama's signature health care law lapsed Jan. 1 due to congressional inaction, spiking premium costs. It is unclear if they will be extended.

The House of Representatives passed legislation to renew the funding Jan. 8, but negotiations have hit an impasse in the Republican-controlled Senate amid Trump's opposition to any funding extension.

It is unclear how sending health care funding directly to Americans would lower costs, but Trump's plan also calls for the lowering of prescription drugs, reducing insurance premiums and increasing price transparency in the health care system. Specifics on how those goals would be accomplished were scarce.

Also unclear is whether there is any appetite in Congress to pursue a major health care overhaul in the midst of a midterm election year.