The article describes the timeline of the spread of COVID-19 in Russia, examines the legal nature of the high alert regime and restrictions and the grounds for their phased withdrawal. Newly defined administrative and criminal liabilities, in the context of epidemic, are introduced. A set of measures is considered to overcome the healthcare system’s organizational crisis during the pandemic: changing the rules for providing medical care; the mechanism of work of medical organizations; and introducing state support measures, including for medical experts working with patients with COVID-19. The patient’s legal status during a pandemic is investigated: general innovations of a supportive nature; restrictive measures for patients with COVID-19; and the situation of people with other serious illnesses. Introduction of power measures without defined legal parameters risks the balance of rights.