AI-assisted analysis based on the official CRS summary. Source version: Mar 13, 2026. Analysis updated: Sep 15, 2026.
01 — The Text
What.
- The Indian Health Service must reimburse patients within 30 days for out-of-pocket costs paid for authorized purchased/referred care services
- Reimbursement requires patients to submit required documentation to HHS
- The Department of Health and Human Services must establish procedures to implement the reimbursement requirement
- HHS must update the Indian Health Manual, provider contracts, and other administrative authorities to reflect the new reimbursement provisions
- The bill replaces references to 'contract health service' with 'purchased/referred care' throughout relevant documents
02 — The Stakes
So what?
- IHS beneficiaries who pay out of pocket for referred care may receive reimbursement rather than bearing the full cost themselves
- The 30-day reimbursement timeline establishes a specific deadline for HHS processing
- Actual effects on beneficiaries, administrative costs, or IHS operations are not addressed in the official summary
03 — The Path
Now what?
- Bill introduced in Senate on February 24, 2025
- Referred to the Committee on Indian Affairs on February 24, 2025
- Committee on Indian Affairs held hearings on February 4, 2026
Legislative History
Actions.
- Feb 4, 2026 — Committee on Indian Affairs. Hearings held.
- Feb 24, 2025 — Read twice and referred to the Committee on Indian Affairs.
- Feb 24, 2025 — Introduced in Senate