IHS Workforce Parity Act of 2025

Increased Flexibility for Scholarship Recipients: Under Section 2(a), individuals receiving Indian Health Scholarships can meet their service obligations through half-time clinical practice if they agree to certain conditions, such as doubling their required period of service.

Expanded Options for Loan Repayment Participants: According to Section 2(b)(1)(iii), individuals in the Indian Health Service Loan Repayment Program can serve through half-time clinical practice for a period of 4 years, providing an alternative to the standard 2-year full-time requirement.

Addressing Health Care Shortages: Section 2(a)(3)(A)(i)(IV) allows for private practice to count toward service obligations if the practice is located in a health professional shortage area and addresses the health care needs of a substantial number of Indians.

Extended Service Obligations for Scholarship Recipients: Under Section 2(a)(3)(A)(ii)(I), individuals choosing to fulfill their obligation through half-time practice must agree in writing to double the period of service that would have been required if they had worked full-time.

Increased Financial Risk for Breaching Contract: Section 2(a)(3)(A)(ii)(II) and Section 2(b)(1)(iv) specify that if an individual fails to begin or complete their service obligation, they will be subject to procedures for determining damages for breach of contract, with half-time service converted into its full-time equivalent for these calculations.

Reduced Loan Payment Amounts for Half-Time Service: Section 2(b)(1)(iii)(III) notes that service in half-time clinical practice may result in a loan payment amount equal to only 50 percent of what would be payable for full-time service for the same period.