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 Oklahoma, 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 programs like Medicaid. Oklahoma has laws that protect the privacy of medical records, aligning with the federal Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), which sets the standard for protecting sensitive patient data. Patients have the right to make their own health care decisions, which can be expressed through advance directives. In cases where individuals cannot make decisions for themselves, Oklahoma law allows for the appointment of a health care proxy or guardian to make decisions on their behalf. These legal frameworks are designed to ensure that health care services are delivered effectively, ethically, and with respect for patients' rights and privacy.