Avoiding genetic discrimination in insurance: An exploration of the legality and ethics of precautionary measures in anticipation of unfavourable test outcomes

Abstract

This paper explores the legality and ethics of an individual securing insurance (life, disability or other forms of income protection insurance for which there is individual risk assessment) in anticipation of undergoing genetic testing. It also seeks to examine the situation from the perspective of genetic counsellors and the extent of their obligations in providing information and advice to individuals contemplating genetic testing. These are matters of importance for health care professionals, human research ethics committees as well, of course, as individuals who may be contemplating undertaking genetic testing.