Senate bill shields Native Americans from IHS referral bills
In committeeS. 699Latest action
Sponsor: Mike Rounds · Senator · SD
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Official title: Purchased and Referred Care Improvement Act of 2025
119th Congress
Topics: Family & community
Introduced:
Read the official bill on Congress.govIn plain words
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Native American patients referred to outside doctors by IHS cannot be billed personally for that care, even if they signed paperwork saying otherwise.
45-second read · 4 questions answered below
What does this do?
This bill protects Native American patients from being billed for outside medical care that the Indian Health Service approved and arranged. The protection applies even if a patient signed forms, and it covers debt collectors, not just the original provider. Patients who already paid out of pocket can request reimbursement from IHS within 30 days of submitting their paperwork.
Who does it affect?
This bill affects Native American patients who receive care from outside providers referred by the Indian Health Service. It also applies to those outside providers, debt collectors, and the IHS itself.
Why does it matter?
Without this bill, patients could still receive bills or debt collection notices even though existing law was meant to protect them. The bill also creates clearer timelines and a formal process so patients and providers know what to expect.
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Where does it stand?
- IntroducedFeb 24, 2025
- Senate committeeYou are here · Feb 4, 2026
- Senate vote
- House
- The president's desk
Right now: a Senate committee is reviewing it. If the House changes it, it goes back to the Senate before reaching the president.
Latest action: — Committee on Indian Affairs. Hearings held.