Genetic Data and Insurance
The Core of the Insurance Debate
I find that the fundamental tension in this discussion revolves around the very purpose of insurance and the rights of insurers to assess risk. It's argued that assessing risk is precisely what insurance is for, and therefore, an insurance company has a right to evaluate all relevant risk factors. From this perspective, a genetic predisposition to a serious illness is seen as a pertinent risk factor, akin to being a smoker, and utilizing such data is simply a matter of sound business practice.
Freedom of Contract and Government Intervention
A strong sentiment expressed is that this issue boils down to freedom of contract. The belief is that two parties, the insurer and the individual, should be free to enter into an agreement with complete awareness of all pertinent facts. Interference from the government in such private agreements is viewed as an overreach.
Potential Compromises and Existing Protections
I observe a suggestion for a potential compromise: allowing the use of genetic data, but with limitations. This compromise would involve permitting its use solely for setting premiums, but within a legally defined, narrow band. The intention here is to prevent insurance from becoming entirely unaffordable for individuals based on their genetic makeup.
Furthermore, it's pointed out that existing legislation, specifically the Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act (GINA), already addresses some of these concerns. GINA, as I understand it, prevents health insurers and employers from discriminating based on genetic information. The current debate, therefore, appears to be focused on whether to extend these protections to other forms of insurance, such as life insurance, disability insurance, and long-term care insurance.
The Specter of Genetic Discrimination
Conversely, a significant concern raised is that this practice constitutes genetic discrimination. I perceive a fear that such policies would lead to the creation of a class of "genetic underdogs" who are rendered uninsurable through no fault of their own. The assertion is made that one's DNA should not be treated as a pre-existing condition, highlighting a strong ethical objection to using genetic information in this manner.
