Genetic Testing and Insurance
Many insurance companies cover the cost of genetic testing and risk assessment services for people who have a personal and/or a family history of cancer. Our staff will help you to determine your coverage and coordinate payment from your insurer. If you do not have health insurance, we can help determine if you are eligible for other financial support.
Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act (GINA)
Many people are concerned about discrimination should their health insurance company find out that they are at higher risk for cancer. A federal law known as the Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act (GINA) was passed in 2008 and provides protection from discrimination based on presymptomatic genetic information in health insurance and in the workplace. Specifically, GINA protects people who are part of a group or individual health plan from being denied, charged more or having limited insurance coverage because of genetic testing or family history information.
Learn more about GINA and other protective laws such as the Health Information Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) by speaking with a genetic counselor.
Genetic testing and insurance policies
It is important to note that currently there are no laws preventing disability and life insurance companies from using genetic test results to determine insurance rates. These companies already ask for your personal and family history information to determine your risk level. A genetic counselor will be able to provide you with additional information regarding genetic testing and these types of insurance policies.
