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 South Carolina, 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 for patient care. Payment for services can involve direct payments, private insurance, or government programs like Medicaid, and providers must navigate billing and reimbursement regulations. Patient privacy is protected under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), which sets national standards for the protection of health information. Additionally, South Carolina has laws that address the right to make health care decisions, including advance directives and health care power of attorney, allowing individuals to outline their preferences for treatment and to designate someone to make decisions on their behalf if they are unable to do so. These legal frameworks are designed to ensure that individuals receive quality health care, that their health information remains confidential, and that they have autonomy over their health care decisions.