STAT+: Two No Surprises Act arbitrators lose government contracts to decide payment disputes

IPRO, the subject of a STAT investigation, was among firms that failed to meet federal standards Kayla Bartkowski/Getty Images Daniel covers the intersection of the health industry and the federal government. He reports on corporate influence in government, the health consequences of federal policies, and the politics of health care. Confidential tips can be sent on Signal at danielp.100. WASHINGTON — The Trump administration is cutting off two groups tasked with arbitrating disputes over surprise medical bills, citing a failure “to meet minimum performance standards.” The groups, Island Peer Review Organization, or IPRO, and Network Medical Review Company, will no longer be able to accept new disputes, the government said in a Wednesday announcement. The firms can appeal the decision, and Network Medical Review said it would do so. The decision comes after a STAT investigation found IPRO, as well as other arbitrators tasked with executing the No Surprises Act, were racking up huge profits while frequently deciding in favor of clinicians in the disputes. STAT+ Exclusive Story Already have an account? Log in This article is exclusive to STAT+ subscribers Unlock this article — plus in-depth analysis, newsletters, premium events, and news alerts. Already have an account? Log in View All Plans To read the rest of this story subscribe to STAT+. Subscribe Daniel covers the intersection of the health industry and the federal government. He reports on corporate influence in government, the health consequences of federal policies, and the politics of health care. Confidential tips can be sent on Signal at danielp.100.