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 Illinois, 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 to avoid malpractice. Payment for health care services can involve direct payments by individuals, insurance claims, and government programs like Medicaid. Illinois has specific laws governing health insurance, including mandates on coverage for certain services. Patient privacy is protected under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) and Illinois' Medical Patient Rights Act, which safeguard medical records and personal health information. Regarding health care decisions, Illinois residents have the right to make their own choices through advance directives, such as living wills and powers of attorney for health care, which allow individuals to outline their preferences or designate someone to make decisions on their behalf if they become incapacitated. Additionally, the Illinois Health Care Surrogate Act allows certain family members or friends to make decisions for a patient who is unable to do so and has not appointed a surrogate. These laws are designed to ensure that individuals' health care needs and preferences are respected and that they receive appropriate care.