28 Apr 2023

Calls to ban genetic discrimination by insurance companies

From Morning Report, 7:52 am on 28 April 2023
Genetic manipulation and DNA modification concept.

Photo: 123RF

Health professionals are calling for a ban on genetic discrimination by insurance companies.

Genetic discrimination occurs when insurance companies use genetic tests to justify lifting premiums or denying insurance cover.

A survey of almost two dozen testing professionals has found half had patients who reported genetic discrimination, with some patients refusing tests in case it affected their insurance.

Many countries ban genetic discrimination, but there are no rules governing insurance companies here.

Geneticist and Director for the Centre for Cancer Research at the University of Auckland, Professor Andrew Shelling, spoke to Corin Dann.