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Indian Health Service Emergency Claims Parity Act
2/5/2026, 12:03 PM
Summary of Bill S 1055
Specifically, the bill aims to streamline the notification process for emergency contract health services, making it easier for Native American individuals to receive the care they need in a timely manner. By modifying the notification requirements, the bill seeks to ensure that beneficiaries are able to access emergency medical services quickly and efficiently.
In addition to modifying the notification requirements, the bill also includes provisions for other purposes related to improving healthcare services for Native American individuals. These provisions may include measures to enhance access to healthcare services, improve the quality of care provided, and address any other issues related to healthcare for Native American communities. Overall, Bill 119 s 1055 is focused on improving the healthcare system for Native American individuals by making changes to the notification requirements for emergency contract health services. By streamlining the process for accessing these services, the bill aims to ensure that Native American individuals receive the care they need in a timely and efficient manner.
Congressional Summary of S 1055
Indian Health Service Emergency Claims Parity Act
This bill extends from 72 hours to 15 days the time period to notify the Purchased/Referred Care (PRC) program of emergency medical care received from a non-Indian Health Service (IHS) medical provider or at a non-IHS medical facility. This bill does not apply to individuals who are elderly or disabled, who continue to have a 30-day notification requirement for emergency services.
The IHS provides medical and dental services directly to American Indian and Alaska Native patients whenever possible. The PRC program pays for medical or dental care that is provided away from an IHS or tribal health care facility. The PRC program must be notified of requests for authorization of payment for health care services from a non-IHS provider.
Currently in emergency cases, the patient, an individual on behalf of the patient, or the medical care provider must, within 72 hours after the beginning of treatment for the condition or after admission to a health care facility, notify a PRC authorizing official of the need for the emergency medical care. This bill instead allows the patient, other individual, or provider to notify PRC within 15 days of the treatment or admission.
