Health care includes the prevention, treatment, and cure of physical and mental health issues that may affect human beings. Legal issues related health care may arise—including issues related to (1) the provision of health care services; (2) the payment for health care services—by individuals or by insurance; (3) the privacy of medical and health care records; and (4) the right to make health care decisions for ourselves and others.

In Alaska, health care law encompasses a variety of regulations and statutes that address the provision, payment, privacy, and decision-making authority related to health care services. Health care providers must adhere to state licensing requirements and follow standards of care when treating patients. Payment for health care services can involve direct payments by individuals, insurance claims, and programs like Medicaid. Alaska has laws that protect the privacy of medical records, aligning with federal laws such as the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), which sets the standard for protecting sensitive patient data. Additionally, Alaska recognizes the rights of individuals to make their own health care decisions, including the use of advance directives and powers of attorney for health care. The state also has provisions for when someone is unable to make decisions for themselves, such as guardianship laws. These legal frameworks ensure that individuals' health care rights are respected and that there are mechanisms in place to address disputes or issues that may arise in the health care context.