Court Decision

Virginia federal court dismisses Anthem challenge to IDR awards

Decision: September 30, 2026 · Summary published October 6, 2026

A September 30, 2026 opinion underscores the narrow grounds for court challenges to No Surprises Act IDR determinations.

What did the court decide?

Judge Robert S. Ballou of the Western District of Virginia dismissed Anthem Health Plans of Virginia and Healthkeepers’ complaint against AGS Health, SCP-affiliated entities, and provider groups with prejudice. The insurers alleged improper use of federal IDR for ineligible disputes, including services governed by Virginia law. Those were allegations, not established findings.

Why were the challenges rejected?

The court treated the non-vacatur claims as impermissible collateral attacks on IDR determinations and declined supplemental jurisdiction over remaining state-law claims. It also rejected the request to vacate awards: the alleged fraud was known or discoverable during IDR, and IDR entities acted within their authority by deciding eligibility.

Does this make every IDR award unchallengeable?

No. The opinion recognizes limited review under the Federal Arbitration Act. It does not establish that every submitted dispute was eligible, guarantee payment, or eliminate the statutory grounds for challenging an award.

Why does the decision matter?

The ruling highlights the importance of eligibility documentation and objections within IDR. This summary covers the September 30 opinion only, not subsequent proceedings, and is informational—not legal advice.