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 Idaho, health care regulation encompasses various aspects including service provision, payment, privacy, and decision-making rights. Health care providers must adhere to state licensing requirements and follow standards of care. Payment for services can be out-of-pocket or through insurance, and Idaho has specific laws governing insurance coverage and practices, including the Idaho Health Insurance Exchange. Patient privacy is protected under the federal Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) and Idaho's own privacy laws, which mandate the confidentiality of medical records and personal health information. Regarding health care decisions, Idaho residents have the right to make their own choices about treatment options and can appoint a health care agent through an advance directive. The state also has laws in place to address decision-making for individuals who are unable to make their own health care decisions due to incapacity.