New York recently took action to protect patients from balance billing, or charging consumers for out-of-network medical expenses not paid by their insurers. The state's new law, effective April 1, perhaps is a model for other states and believed to be the most comprehensive law of its type, according to Kaiser Health News. New York's law protects patients from owing more than their in-network copayment, coinsurance or deductible on bills they receive for out-of-network emergency services or on surprise bills. After completing an "assignment of benefits" form, the provider will pursue payment from the health plan instead of holding the patients responsible. Additionally, the law sets up an independent dispute resolution process for health insurers and providers to use to settle on a fee for surprise bills. Article