In Illinois, are unlicensed individuals or entities allowed to own, operate, and maintain an establishment for the study, diagnosis, and treatment of human ailments and injuries related to Degree Wellness?
Degree_Wellness Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
Illinois prohibits the corporate practice of medicine. Unlicensed individuals and entitles are prohibited from owning, operating and maintaining an establishment for the study, diagnosis and treatment of human ailments and injuries, whether physical or mental. See Medical Corporation Act, 805 ILCS 15/2, 5 (West 2018).
If you are NOT licensed certified in Illinois to provide services of the nature described in this disclosure document, you must negotiate the terms of a management Agreement with license professionals who will provide the services that this franchised business offers. Retain an experienced attorney who will look out for your best interests in this business venture.
Source: Item 23 — Receipts (FDD pages 66–257)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Degree Wellness's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, Illinois law prohibits the corporate practice of medicine. The FDD explicitly states that unlicensed individuals and entities are prohibited from owning, operating, and maintaining an establishment for the study, diagnosis, and treatment of human ailments and injuries, whether physical or mental. This is in accordance with the Medical Corporation Act, 805 ILCS 15/2, 5 (West 2018).
For a prospective Degree Wellness franchisee in Illinois who is not licensed or certified to provide the services described in the disclosure document, the FDD mandates negotiating a management agreement with licensed professionals. These professionals would then provide the services offered by the franchised business.
The FDD strongly advises retaining an experienced attorney to protect the franchisee's best interests in this business venture. This is particularly important given the legal restrictions on unlicensed individuals or entities operating medical practices in Illinois. Degree Wellness may offer franchises to persons or legal entities that meet their qualifications but are not licensed to practice or provide health-related care, and are willing to undertake the investment and effort to own and operate a business that will manage a Studio under the System; Degree Wellness refers to these businesses as "Studio Management Businesses."