This study on health care and health and illness of low income families is based on findings from interviews with 301 low-income families in the state of Maine. The findings show that a majority of the families have various health or medical problems which need immediate attention. These problems range from dental care and chronic medical conditions to inadequate physical and sanitary conditions. These families lack access to medical services and facilities and show a low utilization of existing services. Many of the families use folk-medicines and remedies for health care. Lack of financial resources is the primary reason reported for lack of accessibility to a doctor. A direct relationship was found between socio-economic status and health and illness behavior patterns. A very high proportion of the families appear to be receptive to proposed services and facilities such as health screening programs and community health centers or clinics. (Author/WS)