The "Health Investment Zones Act of 2026" aims to establish Health Investment Zones (HIZs) across the nation to address significant health disparities and improve health outcomes. The Secretary of Health and Human Services will designate these contiguous geographic areas based on measurable criteria such as low average income, high participation in nutrition programs, lower life expectancy, high rates of low birth weight, or designation as a health professional shortage area. Applications for HIZ designation must be submitted by community-based nonprofit organizations or local governmental agencies, in coalition with various healthcare and social service providers, outlining a sustainable plan to reduce disparities, improve outcomes, and utilize available incentives. The Secretary will prioritize applications demonstrating strong stakeholder support, long-term funding plans, integration with state health initiatives, and evaluation plans. To incentivize investment and service delivery in these zones, the bill introduces several financial mechanisms. It amends the tax code to include qualified Health Investment Zone workers under the Work Opportunity Credit and creates a new tax credit allowing individuals to claim 30 percent of wages received for qualified HIZ work. Additionally, the Secretary is authorized to award grants to designated HIZ applicants, which can be used for various innovative public health strategies. These strategies may include: Subgrants to healthcare practitioners for facility improvements or equipment Funding resources to improve access for non-English speakers Operating medical, mental/behavioral health, and dental mobile clinics Offering patient transportation to and from medical appointments Supporting access to healthy food, recreation, and quality housing The legislation also establishes a student loan repayment program for eligible HIZ practitioners who commit to providing healthcare services in these zones, offering up to $10,000 annually for a maximum of 10 years. Furthermore, it mandates incentive payments for Medicare Part B items and services furnished within HIZs, providing an additional 10 percent payment, with further increases for services at freestanding offices/clinics and for specific preventative care. The Secretary is required to submit a report to Congress after 10 years, detailing the implementation and results of the Act, including the effectiveness of incentives in attracting practitioners, reducing disparities, improving outcomes, and impacting healthcare costs and access.