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 Montana (MT), 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 standards of care. Payment for health care services can involve direct payments by individuals, insurance claims, and programs like Medicaid. Montana has laws that protect the privacy of medical records, aligning with the federal Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), which sets standards for the protection of health information. Additionally, Montana residents have the right to make health care decisions for themselves, including the use of advance directives to outline their wishes for medical treatment. The state also has provisions for the appointment of a health care power of attorney to make decisions on behalf of individuals who are unable to do so. These legal frameworks are designed to ensure that individuals receive appropriate health care services, that their health information is kept confidential, and that their autonomy in health care decisions is respected.