# Federal Register #2026-20685

IHS removes obsolete language on charges for care provided to non-IHS beneficiaries

**Buyer:** Indian Health Service, Department of Health and Human Services
**Posted:** October 08, 2026
**Identifier:** 2026-20685

The Indian Health Service (IHS), within the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), issued a final rule updating regulations on charges for care provided to individuals who are not IHS beneficiaries.
- **Government buyer:** No procurement buyer; the rule was issued by IHS, an agency within HHS.
- **Regulatory change:** Removes obsolete language describing a former process for setting charges under 42 CFR part 136.
- **Impact:** The change does not alter IHS’s existing practices or authorities. Individuals determined able to pay may still be charged, and third-party reimbursement arrangements may be made.
- **Procurement scope:** No products, services, quantities, part numbers, OEMs, vendors, or contract value are identified.

### Description

The Indian Health Service (IHS), within the Department of Health and Human Services, is issuing a final rule to remove obsolete language from 42 CFR part 136. The language describes an outdated process for setting charges for care provided to non-IHS beneficiaries. The rule removes that language without changing IHS’s existing practices or authorities. It is effective December 7, 2026.

[View original listing](https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2026/10/08/2026-20685/removal-of-obsolete-portion-of-regulation-relating-to-care-and-treatment-of-ineligible-individuals)