Potential for Genetic Discrimination in Access to Insurance: Is There a Dark Side to Increased Availability of Genetic Information?
Date
2013
Authors
Adjin-Tettey, Elizabeth
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Alberta Law Review
Abstract
This article addresses the reliance on genetic
information as part of the private insurance industry’s
practice of risk segmentation whereby underwriting
decisions are based on risk information about
individuals and groups as compared to the general
population. The author argues that there are a number
of concerns regarding reliance on genetic information
in insurance underwriting, including uncertainty about
what constitutes genetic information and the predictive
value thereof, possible conflicts with human rights
values, potential reductions in access to insurance, and
the legal and ethical obligations of individuals who
undergo testing, health professionals, and insurers.
This article reviews the solutions that have been
adopted in other jurisdictions and concludes that the
use of genetic information is consistent with standard
insurance industry practices. However, it is
recommended that a legislative framework be
established in Canada to regulate the use of genetic
information.
Description
This is a post-print version of this paper, published in the Alberta Law Review, (2013) 50(3) pp. 577-614.
Keywords
Citation
Elizabeth Adjin-Tettey, “Potential for Genetic Discrimination in Access to Insurance: Is There a Dark Side to Increased Availability of Genetic Information?” (2013) 50(3) Alberta Law Review 577-614.