In the next few years, I believe you will begin to hear more and more about something called “genetic discrimination.” This phenomenon is being boosted by modern genetic science, whereby we can (or think we can) predict possible future ailments of a person simply by analyzing their genetic sequence today. You can read more about that here. Today, consumers made a step forward with an extra protection against genetic discrimination when a representative in the State of Maryland introduced a bill to amend a 1995 bill preventing insurers from accessing genetic information during underwriting.
In ’95, health insurance was prevented from genetic discrimination, but the bill left the door open to other types of insurance, including long-term care insurance. By preventing insurers from using this information against consumers, it will help keep insurance fair. Insurance has a socialized aspect built in – the spread of risk across many. By allowing genetic discrimination, that element begins to go away.
The biggest problem I have with genetic discrimination is that there is NOTHING you can do about your genetic makeup. Sure, you can live a healthy life, but your genetic makeup shouldn’t have a bearing on how hard you must diet. You should live as healthy as you wish, and not be living in fear of what scientists BELIEVE may happen to you, based on your genes.
