Volume 192 - Issue 2
Is uptake of genetic testing for colorectal cancer influenced by knowledge of insurance implications?
Author: Warwick P Anderson
Med J Aust 2010; 192 (2): 112. || doi: 10.5694/j.1326-5377.2010.tb03441.x
Published online: 18 January 2010
Published online: 18 January 2010
To the Editor: The research article by Keogh and colleagues1 on uptake of genetic testing and insurance implications highlights the need to ensure that Australian insurance industry policy in relation to genetic testing does not increase the risk of adverse health outcomes.
The authors called upon the insurance industry and the Human Genetics Advisory Committee (HGAC) of the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) to reconsider the use of genetic information in relation to insurance.1 Another recently published study has also raised concerns about the way genetic information is used in the insurance industry.2
The HGAC has had initial discussions with the insurance industry about:
avoiding genetic discrimination in the insurance setting;
developing policies and guidelines to ensure appropriate use of genetic test results in insurance underwriting;
promoting genetic education and training in the financial industry; and
providing support for consumers and health professionals wanting to challenge adverse decisions.
Through the HGAC, the NHMRC will encourage the development of an evidence-based process for assessment of genetic tests for use by the insurance industry, to ensure that it meets the required standard for underwriting. This will, in turn, support appropriate, equitable consumer access to optimal health care.
References
- Keogh LA, van Vliet CM, Studdert DM, et al. Is uptake of genetic testing for colorectal cancer influenced by knowledge of insurance implications? Med J Aust 2009; 191: 255-258. 0_CBBBDFJG
- Barlow-Stewart K, Taylor SD, Treloar SA, et al. Verification of consumers’ experiences and perceptions of genetic discrimination and its impact on utilization of genetic testing. Genet Med 2009; 11: 193-201. 0_CBBHGJCG
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