In this Edition:

• IHS Releases Updated Medicare Part D Creditable Coverage Letter
• Traditional Healing Waivers Approved in Utah and Maine
• $1.86 Billion Planned for IHS Information Technology and Facilities
• 340B Rebate Model Pilot Program Update
• Bipartisan Bill to Elevate Indian Health Service Leadership Within HHS Passed House
• New Medicaid Implementation Resources
• Comment Opportunity: 2030 Census Proposed Rule
• IHS Produce Prescription Pilot Program Awards
• HHS Secretary’s Tribal Advisory Committee Meeting – HHS Visits San Diego UIO
• NCUIH at the NCAI Annual Convention
• UIO Summit Preparation
• Upcoming Events and Policy Dates
• 2027 NCUIH Annual Conference
• Current Funding Opportunities

IHS Releases Updated Medicare Part D Creditable Coverage Letter

On October 15, 2026, the Indian Health Service (IHS) released an updated Medicare Part D Creditable Coverage Letter confirming that prescription drug coverage provided through IHS, Tribal Health Programs, and Urban Indian Organizations is creditable coverage for Medicare Part D purposes. The letter provides American Indian and Alaska Native Medicare beneficiaries with documentation of their creditable prescription drug coverage, which can help prevent or challenge Medicare Part D late-enrollment penalties.

The release follows sustained work by Tribal leaders and Indian health partners through the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Tribal Technical Advisory Group (TTAG) and the National Indian Health Board’s Medicare, Medicaid and Health Reform Policy Committee (MMPC) IHS-Tribal Workgroup. The issue has been a TTAG priority since at least July 2025, with continued work among Tribal representatives, IHS, and CMS to address outstanding questions and finalize an updated letter. NCUIH is honored to participate in TTAG alongside Tribal leaders to ensure the perspectives of Urban Indian Organizations and the people they serve are represented in CMS policy discussions.

IHS encourages I/T/U Registration, Benefits Coordination, Business Office, and Pharmacy staff to inform Medicare-eligible beneficiaries about the letter and assist them in obtaining a copy when needed. Tribes and Urban Indian Organizations may use the IHS template as provided or adapt it to their local letterhead and operational practices.

Read on NCUIH’s blog.

Read the IHS Dear Tribal Leader and Urban Indian Organization Leader Letter and Creditable Coverage Letter template

Traditional Healing Waivers Approved in Utah and Maine

CMS has approved section 1115 applications from Utah and Maine to provide reimbursement for Traditional Healing for eligible beneficiaries. The Utah approval includes UIOs. The Utah waiver was approved on September 24, 2026 and took effect on October 1, 2026.

CMS determined that covering traditional health care practices is expected to be budget neutral, so neither waiver requires a specific budget neutrality expenditure limit.

Read NCUIH’s press release.

$1.86 Billion Planned for IHS Information Technology and Facilities

On October 5, 2026, HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. notified Congress of plans to invest $1.86 billion in the Indian Health Service (IHS) for critical information technology and facilities projects, including backlog items within the IHS Health Care Facility Construction Program.

NCUIH will monitor implementation, including how these investments reach Indian Health Care Providers across the Indian health system.

Read on NCUIH’s blog.

340B Rebate Model Pilot Program Update

The Health Resources and Services Administration’s (HRSA) 340B Rebate Model Pilot Program is scheduled to take effect January 1, 2027. At HRSA’s Tribal Consultation on September 16, 2026, Tribal and Urban leaders opposed the pilot, citing financial and administrative burden and its inconsistency with the federal trust responsibility.

On October 1, 2026, NCUIH submitted comments to HRSA requesting an exemption for Indian health care providers.

NCUIH-Endorsed Bipartisan Bill to Elevate Indian Health Service Leadership Within HHS Passed House

On September 15, 2026, the House unanimously passed the bipartisan Stronger Engagement for Indian Health Needs Act of 2025 (H.R.741). The bill, which was introduced in the House of Representatives by Congressmen Greg Stanton (D-AZ-04) and David Joyce (R-OH-14), would formally elevate the IHS Director’s position within the federal government, strengthening Tribal representation in federal health decision-making and reinforcing the federal government’s trust responsibility to provide health care to American Indian and Alaska Native people.

Next Steps: The bill will now need to be passed by the Senate. The Senate currently has companion legislation which was introduced by U.S. Senators Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV) and Mike Rounds (R-SD).

Read on NCUIH’s blog.

New Medicaid Implementation Resources

NCUIH has developed resources to help UIOs respond to the new Medicaid requirements:

• UIO Implementation Guide: Steps UIO staff should have in place and actions staff can take when applicable protections are not recognized correctly.
• Patient Handout: Steps patients should take after receiving a Medicaid work or renewal notice.

View the resources at https://ncuih.org/medicaid-changes/

Comment Opportunity: 2030 Census Proposed Rule

The U.S. Census Bureau has issued a proposed rule that would make significant changes to the 2030 Census, including the proposed removal of race and ethnicity questions. If finalized, the changes could significantly affect annual federal appropriations in Indian Country, since federal agencies use Census data to determine funding levels, program eligibility, and allocations for Tribal communities.

A Tribal consultation was held on October 2. Written comments are due on November 2, 2026.

Read on NCUIH’s blog.

IHS Produce Prescription Pilot Program Awards

On September 22, 2026, IHS announced $3.5 million in funding through Phase 2 of the Produce Prescription Pilot Program (P4), supporting 14 Tribal and urban Indian recipients. NCUIH congratulates the recipients.

Read on NCUIH’s blog.

HHS Secretary’s Tribal Advisory Committee Meeting – HHS Visits San Diego UIO

From September 22-24, 2026, NCUIH attended the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary’s Tribal Advisory Committee (STAC) in Jamul, California. The STAC’s primary purpose is to seek consensus, exchange views, share information, provide advice and/or recommendations; or facilitate any other interaction related to intergovernmental responsibilities or administration of HHS programs.

NCUIH at the NCAI Annual Convention

NCUIH participated in the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) 83rd Annual Convention and Marketplace in Palm Springs, California, engaging with Tribal leaders, federal officials, and national partners to advance priorities across the Indian health system.

NCUIH Board President Robyn Sunday-Allen served as Co-Chair of NCAI’s Health Subcommittee alongside the National Indian Health Board, helping lead discussions on four critical health policy resolutions. NCUIH Board Vice-President Walter Murillo sponsored a resolution urging HRSA to exempt Indian health care providers from the 340B Rebate Model Pilot Program. NCUIH also worked with Tribal partners to strengthen a resolution on Indian-specific Medicaid Section 1115 demonstration waivers and proposed budget neutrality changes, including an amendment explicitly recognizing urban Indian communities. The four Health Subcommittee resolutions advanced through NCAI’s Human Resources (HR) Committee, and the committee’s report was subsequently adopted by the NCAI General Assembly by unanimous consent.

NCUIH leadership also met with Indian Health Service Director Mark Cruz to discuss longstanding priorities, including permanent 100% federal medical assistance percentage (FMAP) for Urban Indian Organizations and reimbursement policies that support access to care. NCUIH also engaged with Congressman Raul Ruiz (D-CA) on Indian health priorities during the convention.

Through these discussions, NCUIH continued its work alongside Tribal leaders and federal partners to strengthen the Indian health system, uphold Tribal sovereignty, and improve access to quality health care for American Indian and Alaska Native communities.

SAVE THE DATE: November 10 – UIO and Federal Partners Summit Preparation Session

NCUIH is preparing UIOs for the Urban Indian Organization and Federal Partners Summit, which will be held on November 19, 2026, in Washington, D.C. On October 21, NCUIH held a virtual UIO Summit Preparation and Input Session to gather UIO input and support early preparation for the Summit.

UPCOMING – November 10: UIO Summit Preparation Session (virtual). This session will go over general Summit preparation and logistics for UIOs. No RSVP required.

Upcoming Events and Policy Dates

• November 3-4: IHS Tribal Self-Governance Advisory Committee Meeting (Washington, D.C.)
• November 10: UIO Summit Preparation Session (virtual)
• November 19: Urban Indian Organization and Federal Partners Summit (Washington, D.C.)
• December 15: Tribal Leaders Diabetes Committee Quarterly Meeting (virtual)
• January 20-21, 2027: FY 2029 Area Report Presentations Webinar (virtual)

2027 NCUIH Annual Conference

The 2027 NCUIH Annual Conference will be held May 3-6, 2027, at Westin Washington, D.C. Downtown.

We are excited to welcome Urban Indian Organizations, health care professionals, policymakers, community leaders, advocates, and partners from across the country. Through educational sessions, networking opportunities, and advocacy-focused discussions, attendees will connect, share best practices, strengthen partnerships, and explore solutions to critical issues impacting urban Indian health. Together, we will advance efforts to improve the health and well-being of urban Indian communities.

Conference Agenda:

• May 3: Board Training – Board Training is free and does not require conference registration. Select the “IHS and NCUIH-Sponsored Events” ticket and choose “Yes, register me” for Board Training.
• May 4-5: Conference Programming
• May 6: Hill Day – Participation is limited to staff and leadership of IHS-funded UIOs. Pre-registration is required and will be sent out in March 2027.

Important Deadlines:

• Early Bird Registration Deadline: December 18, 2026
• Call for Proposals Submission Deadline: November 3, 2026
• Award Nominations Submission Deadline: February 5, 2027
• Learn more at ncuih.org/conference.

Current Funding Opportunities

FY 2027 Tribal Maternal, Infant, and Early Childhood Home Visiting (MIECHV) Program: Development and Implementation Grants

• Purpose: Five-year cooperative agreements to support federally recognized Tribes, Tribal organizations, and urban Indian organizations in developing and implementing evidence-based home visiting programs for expectant families and young children.
• Source: HHS, Administration for Children and Families, Office of Early Childhood Development. UIOs are eligible.
• Award: Funding amount not yet specified.
• Timeline: Forecasted opportunity. Expected to open December 1, 2026; estimated due date March 2, 2027.

View the forecasted opportunity.

Visit the NCUIH website to explore the full list of funding opportunities.

About NCUIH

The National Council of Urban Indian Health (NCUIH) is a national representative for the 41 Urban Indian Organizations contracting with the Indian Health Service under the Indian Health Care Improvement Act. NCUIH is devoted to the support and development of high quality and accessible health and public health services for American Indian and Alaska Native people living in urban areas.

NCUIH respects and supports Tribal sovereignty and the unique government-to-government relationship between our Tribal Nations and the United States. NCUIH works to support those federal laws, policies, and procedures that respect and uplift Tribal sovereignty and the government-to-government relationship. NCUIH does not support any federal law, policy, or procedure that infringes upon or in any way diminishes Tribal sovereignty or the government-to-government relationship.

On October 5, 2026, HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. notified Rosa DeLauro, Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies, that the Department plans to use its Nonrecurring Expenses Fund (NEF) authority for infrastructure investments across HHS. The letter plans $1.86 billion for the Indian Health Service (IHS) for critical information technology and facilities projects, including backlog items within the IHS Health Care Facility Construction Program.

What the Letter Says

NEF authority allows HHS to transfer unobligated balances of expired discretionary resources into a fund for capital acquisitions, including information technology procurements and facility investments. The letter states that the amounts are approximate, based on current estimates, and may vary during the year and in execution.

Facilities Construction Backlog and EHR Modernization

In its October 6, 2026 weekly update, the National Indian Health Board (NIHB) reported that the plan includes $1.4 billion toward the 1993 Facilities Construction Backlog, exceeding the $1 billion HHS announced earlier this year, and an additional $410 million for Electronic Health Records (EHR) modernization at IHS.

NIHB called the commitment “historic” and attributed it to Tribal Nations’ advocacy and Tribal leaders’ push for the federal government to meet its trust and treaty obligations. NIHB said it will continue to monitor the item as the appropriations process develops.

NCUIH commends the Secretary’s commitment and recognizes the sustained advocacy of Tribal Nations, Tribal leaders, and the Indian health community that made it possible.

Next Steps for Urban Indian Organizations

The letter does not address Urban Indian Organizations (UIOs). NCUIH will monitor implementation, including how health information technology investments reach Indian Health Care Providers across the Indian health system, and the appropriations process as it develops.

Background

The NEF authority was provided by Section 223 of Division G of the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2008 (42 U.S.C. 3514a; P.L. 110-161). In February 2026, HHS announced $1 billion in existing departmental resources from the NEF for priority IHS health care facilities projects beginning in FY 2027, focused on the 1993 IHS Construction Priority List. The Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act, 2027 (H.R. 6500) maintains federal funding at Fiscal Year 2026 levels through December 11, 2026, and Congress will continue to negotiate full-year Fiscal Year 2027 appropriations.

NCUIH, HHS Secretary Kennedy Jr. Announces $1 Billion in Infrastructure Investment for IHS

NCUIH, Congress Extends Government Funding Through December

NCUIH March Policy Update: Congressional Testimony, Medicaid Guidance, and IHS Policy Developments

IHS Vertical Status Report

On September 22, 2026, the Indian Health Service (IHS) announced $3.5 million in funding through Phase 2 of the Produce Prescription Pilot Program (P4), supporting 14 Tribal and urban Indian communities working to improve access to fruits, vegetables, and traditional foods. The awards will help recipients establish and implement community-driven produce prescription programs that address food insecurity and support healthier communities.

The recipients include four Urban Indian Organizations (UIOs):

The awards also support Tribal Nations and Tribal organizations in Alaska, California, Idaho, Louisiana, Michigan, Oklahoma, Oregon, and Washington.

Supporting Nutrition and Traditional Foods

According to IHS, the Produce Prescription Pilot Program is designed to reduce food insecurity; improve nutrition and dietary patterns by increasing access to and consumption of fruits, vegetables, and traditional foods; build nutrition knowledge through education; and promote whole-person health and well-being for American Indian and Alaska Native people and their families.

Produce prescription programs connect health care providers, patients, and local food systems to increase access to nutritious foods while supporting nutrition education and healthier food choices.

Strengthening Native Community Health

Food insecurity and nutrition-related chronic disease continue to affect Native communities across the country. Programs that support access to healthy and traditional foods can strengthen community wellness initiatives and locally driven approaches to improving health.

NCUIH has highlighted the role of traditional food programs at UIOs through its 2024 report, Thematic Analysis of Traditional Food Programs at Urban Indian Organizations and Research on Traditional Healing, which draws on interviews with seven UIOs about how traditional food programs are incorporated into their services.

NCUIH congratulates all Tribal Nations, Tribal organizations, and Urban Indian Organizations selected to receive Produce Prescription Pilot Program funding and looks forward to the impact these programs will have in Native communities.

Background

IHS established the Produce Prescription Pilot Program in 2023. Through the original P4 cohort, IHS awarded $2.5 million to five Tribes and Tribal organizations to implement five-year produce prescription programs. In 2026, IHS awarded an additional $3.5 million to 14 Tribal and urban Indian communities through Phase 2 of the program, with recipients receiving up to $250,000 each.

NCUIH 2024 Traditional Food Report
IHS Produce Prescription Programs
IHS Awards $3.5 Million for Tribal Food and Nutrition Initiatives

In this Edition:

• Questions for UIOs: Request for Input and Feedback
• New and Forthcoming NCUIH Medicaid Resources
• New Maternal Health Resources
• Fiscal Year 2027 Appropriations Status
• NCUIH Regulation Tracker Updates
• Comment Opportunity: HRSA 340B Rebate Model Pilot Program
• Submitted Federal Comments
• NCUIH Participates in the National Tribal Health Conference
• NCUIH Participates in NCAI Tribal Impact Week
• Urban Indian Organization and Federal Partners Summit – NCUIH’s Preparation and Input Sessions
• Upcoming Events and Policy Dates
• 2027 NCUIH Annual Conference
• Current Funding Opportunities

Questions for UIOs: Request for Input and Feeback

Request for Information on H R 1 Medicaid Exclusions

As a member of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Tribal Technical Advisory Group (TTAG), NCUIH is working to support proper implementation of the exclusions for American Indian and Alaska Native (AI/AN) people under the new H.R. 1 Medicaid provisions.

• What definition is your state using for the exclusions for American Indian and Alaska Native people?
• Are you concerned that your state may not include everyone who should qualify for the American Indian and Alaska Native exclusion?

Responses can be sent to policy@ncuih.org.

New and Forthcoming NCUIH Medicaid Resources

Overview of the Impact of Medicaid on Health Care for American Indian and Alaska Native People

This updated resource explains why Medicaid matters for American Indian and Alaska Native people and UIOs. It provides data, background, and information that UIO staff and leaders can use for education and understanding Medicaid’s role in Native health care.

Medicaid Is Changing

This quick-reference resource explains the new Medicaid work and renewal requirements, who may be protected by the American Indian and Alaska Native exemption, and the basic policy changes that staff, leaders, and patients should understand.

Forthcoming Medicaid Implementation Resources

NCUIH is developing two additional resources to help UIOs respond to the new Medicaid requirements:

• UIO Implementation Guide: Steps UIO staff should have in place and actions staff can take when applicable protections are not recognized correctly.
• Patient Handout: Steps patients should take after receiving a Medicaid work or renewal notice.

New Maternal Health Resources

NCUIH has released new resources highlighting best practices for improving American Indian and Alaska Native maternal health outcomes:

• When the Data Gets It Wrong: Racial Misclassification of American Indian and Alaska Native Pregnant People is a blog post on addressing racial misclassification to improve data accuracy, interventions, programming, and maternal health outcomes.
• American Indian and Alaska Native Led Maternal Mortality Review Committees is a one-page resource with recommendations to support the establishment of American Indian and Alaska Native-led Maternal Mortality Review Committees.

View the resources at ncuih.org/maternal-health.

Fiscal Year 2027 Appropriations Status

On September 2, 2026, the Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act, 2027 (H.R.6500) was signed into law by the President. The Continuing Resolution (CR) funds the federal government through December 11, 2026 at Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 levels. The CR:

• Prevents the administration from implementing the Office of Management and Budget’s (OMB) proposed grants rule for the duration of the continuing resolution.
• OMB’s proposed Regulation for Federal Financial Assistance which will impact how nearly all grant awards are administered and overseen. NCUIH previously submitted comments on the proposal.
• Extends authorizations for important health, veterans, infrastructure, and other programs for the duration of the continuing resolution.

Read on NCUIH’s blog.

NCUIH Regulation Tracker Updates

NCUIH tracks regulations and other federal agency actions that affect UIOs and American Indian and Alaska Native people living in urban areas. Recent regulations NCUIH has tracked:

• Four letters from the Indian Health Service (IHS) addressing efforts to combat the syphilis epidemic, open positions at Tribal facilities and UIOs, the Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act, 2027, and Director Mark Cruz’s dual role as IHS Director and U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Advisor.
• Two letters from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) initiating Tribal Consultation on the 340B Rebate Model Pilot Program.

Visit ncuih.org/policy/regulation-tracker to follow current agency actions.

Comment Opportunity HRSA 340B Rebate Model Pilot Program

On August 3, the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) published a notice launching the 340B Rebate Model Pilot Program, which is scheduled to take effect January 1, 2027. Under the pilot, covered entities, including UIOs participating in the 340B Drug Pricing Program, would pay the full price upfront for a limited set of drugs and receive a manufacturer rebate within 10 days. HRSA held a Tribal Consultation on September 16, 2026 in response to requests from Tribal leaders and Tribal-serving organizations. Tribal stakeholders are encouraged to submit written testimony or comments directly to HRSA.

• Written comments are due Thursday, October 1, 2026.
• Submit comments to tribalconsultation@hrsa.gov.

Read more on NCUIH’s blog.

Submitted Federal Comments

NCUIH Submits Comments to IHS on Health Information Technology Modernization

On September 4, NCUIH submitted comments to IHS on its Health Information Technology Modernization Roadmap to Cohorts following the August 6 Tribal Consultation and Urban Confer. NCUIH recommended that IHS clarify the criteria for Cohort One and continue engaging UIOs throughout implementation of Health Information Technology Modernization.

NCUIH Submits Comments to CMS on Current Procedural Terminology

On September 14, NCUIH submitted comments to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services in response to its Current Procedural Terminology Request for Information – potential updates to health care coding policies. NCUIH emphasized the need to minimize administrative burden on Indian Health Care Providers – including UIOs, ensure a smooth implementation process for any future changes, and protect reliable reimbursement for services.

NCUIH Joins Indian Country Partners at the National Indian Health Board’s National Tribal Health Conference

From August 17-20, NCUIH participated in the National Indian Health Board’s National Tribal Health Conference in Phoenix, Arizona, where NCUIH and UIO leaders connected with newly confirmed IHS Director, Mark Cruz. NATIVE Health CEO, Walter Murillo (Choctaw), moderated a panel with Kelly Rowe (Grand Ronde) and Angie Wilson (Klamath) to discuss A New Era for Traditional Healing: Celebrating Progress and Shaping the Future, highlighting traditional healing practices and on-the-ground implementation experience.

NCUIH Submits Comments to Arizona Medicaid Program on Traditional Healing Demonstration

On September 6, NCUIH submitted comments on an Arizona Medicaid amendment for UIOs seeking to participate in the Traditional Healing program. NCUIH asked Arizona to ensure timely implementation of Traditional Healing reimbursement at UIOs and to identify and secure the non-federal share needed to reimburse UIOs, which do not currently receive 100% FMAP.

NCUIH Participates in NCAI Tribal Impact Days

   

   

NCUIH joined the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) for Tribal Impact Days in Washington, D.C. During a session in the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs Hearing Room, NCUIH heard from Senators Tina Smith (D-MN), Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), and other members of Congress about their work on behalf of Indian Country. NCUIH also connected with NCAI Executive Director Larry Wright, Jr., Tribal leaders, and Native organizations working on federal policy priorities. The week concluded at the National Museum of the American Indian with a reception celebrating the Tribal Supreme Court Project’s 25 years of coordinating Supreme Court strategy on cases affecting Tribal Nations.

SAVE THE DATE: UIO and Federal Partners Summit Preparation and Input Sessions

NCUIH is preparing UIOs for the upcoming Urban Indian Organization and Federal Partners Summit in Washington, D.C. set to be held on November 19, 2026, in Washington D.C. NCUIH will host two virtual sessions to gather input, share available information, and help UIOs prepare for the Summit.

October 21: UIO Summit Preparation and Input Session. This virtual session will gather UIO input and support early preparation for the Summit. Invite forthcoming.

November 10: UIO Summit Preparation Session. This virtual session will go over general Summit prep and logistics for UIOs. Invite forthcoming.

• NCUIH also plans to host an in-person gathering for UIOs in Washington, D.C. RSVP required. Details to follow.

Upcoming Events and Policy Dates

• September 22-24: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Secretary’s Tribal Advisory Committee Meeting, San Diego, California.
• September 30: NCUIH 2027 Policy Priorities Survey deadline.
• October 1: Written comments due to HRSA on the 340B Rebate Model Pilot Program.
• October 13: National Indian Health Board Medicare Medicaid and Health Reform Policy Committee Face-to-Face Meeting, Washington, D.C.
• October 14-15: Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Tribal Technical Advisory Group Face-to-Face Meeting, Washington, D.C.
• October 15: IHS Division of Urban Indian Affairs UIO Chief Executive Officer Monthly Conference Call, virtual.
• October 21: NCUIH Monthly Policy Work Group and UIO Summit Preparation and Input Session, virtual.
• November 10: UIO Summit Preparation Session, virtual, pending IHS approval.

2027 NCUIH Annual Conference

The 2027 NCUIH Annual Conference will be held May 3-6, 2027, at Westin Washington, D.C. Downtown.

We are excited to welcome Urban Indian Organizations, health care professionals, policymakers, community leaders, advocates, and partners from across the country. Through educational sessions, networking opportunities, and advocacy-focused discussions, attendees will connect, share best practices, strengthen partnerships, and explore solutions to critical issues impacting urban Indian health. Together, we will advance efforts to improve the health and well-being of urban Indian communities.

Conference Agenda:

• May 3: Board Training – Board Training is free and does not require conference registration. Select the “IHS and NCUIH-Sponsored Events” ticket and choose “Yes, register me” for Board Training.
• May 4-5: Conference Programming
• May 6: Hill Day – Participation is limited to staff and leadership of IHS-funded UIOs. Pre-registration is required and will be sent out in March 2027.

Important Deadlines:

• Early Bird Registration Deadline: December 18, 2026
• Call for Proposals Submission Deadline: November 3, 2026
• Award Nominations Open: October 5, 2026

Learn more at ncuih.org/conference.

Current Funding Opportunities

Indian Health Service Fiscal Year 2026 Urban Emergency Fund

• Purpose: To help UIOs address costs associated with one-time, non-recurring emergencies and disaster relief efforts.
• Award: A limited discretionary fund with up to $250,000 available.
• Application deadline: As soon as reasonably practicable after the emergency occurs.

Visit the NCUIH website to explore the full list of funding opportunities.

About NCUIH

The National Council of Urban Indian Health (NCUIH) is a national representative for the 41 Urban Indian Organizations contracting with the Indian Health Service under the Indian Health Care Improvement Act. NCUIH is devoted to the support and development of high quality and accessible health and public health services for American Indian and Alaska Native people living in urban areas.

NCUIH respects and supports Tribal sovereignty and the unique government-to-government relationship between our Tribal Nations and the United States. NCUIH works to support those federal laws, policies, and procedures that respect and uplift Tribal sovereignty and the government-to-government relationship. NCUIH does not support any federal law, policy, or procedure that infringes upon or in any way diminishes Tribal sovereignty or the government-to-government relationship.

On September 15, 2026, the House unanimously passed the bipartisan Stronger Engagement for Indian Health Needs Act of 2025 (H.R.741). The bill, which was introduced in the House of Representatives by Congressmen Greg Stanton (D-AZ-04) and David Joyce (R-OH-14), would formally elevate the IHS Director’s position within the federal government, strengthening Tribal representation in federal health decision-making and reinforcing the federal government’s trust responsibility to provide health care to American Indian and Alaska Native people.

The bill was endorsed by the National Council of Urban Indian Health (NCUIH), National Congress of American Indians, and the National Indian Health Board.

Representative Stanton Press Release.

Next Steps

The bill will now need to be passed by the Senate. The Senate currently has companion legislation which was introduced by U.S. Senators Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV) and Mike Rounds (R-SD).