Question

from a health policy analyst point of view do you feel that the insurance company has the right to know the results of genetic testing why or why not?

Answer 1

From a health policy analyst point of view do you feel that the insurance company has the right to know the results of genetic testing why or why not?

Many common complex human diseases—including common chronic conditions such as cancer, heart disease, and diabetes are influenced by several genetic and environmental factors. For this reason, they could all be said to be “genetic diseases". Identifying the genetic makeup of the individual or patient is becoming highly critical now a days for decision making and delivery of health care. Genetic testing is a type of medical tests that identifies changes in chromosomes and proteins in a cell of a living being. The result of a genetic test can predict or rule out a suspected genetic condition or help to determine a persons chance of developing or passing on a genetic disorder. There are several methods to conduct genetic testing such as,

Molecular genetic test- studies a single genes or short lengths of DNA to identify variations or mutations that lead to a genetic disorder.Chromosomal genetic test- This test analyse the whole chromosome or length of DNA to find if there are large genetic changes such as an extra copy of a chromosome that cause a genetic condition. Bio-Chemical Genetic Test- study the amount or activity level of proteins; abnormalities in either can indicate changes to the DNA that result in a genetic disorder.

Healthcare policy analysts are responsible for analysing and applying the latest research findings to implement solutions that resolve tough issues facing the medical industry. It’s their duty to facilitate the development of a well-functioning healthcare system where patients are put first and everyone has access to treatment. They formulate policies and guidelines regarding the health insurance and how it is delivered to the public. Hence decisions made by them are critical in providing equal care to everyone in the society.

In a policy analyst point of view, if the healthcare system requires equal care to all individuals’ insurers should not use genetic tests to provide care. If genetic test becomes criteria then they will select only low risk individuals, leaving many other persons excluded from coverage. This could lead to individuals having their coverage cancelled, their premium increased or, indeed, having their application for insurance rejected. Ideally it is the consumer’s right to be able to withhold information from insurance companies. Therefore policy analyst should design policies which prevent the insurers from weighing the quality of care according to the genetic test results for the well-being of the society