The Australian Academy of Health and Medical Sciences (AAHMS) has called on the Federal Government to ban the use of genetic testing results in life insurance underwriting amid concerns of discrimination.
Academy President Professor Louise Baur said the Academy had released a position statement confirming its stance after Fellows witnessed patients declining vital genetic tests amid fears that it could impact their insurances.
“Genetic testing saves lives. In clinical settings, it identifies the need for crucial treatments, while in medical research, it drives scientific breakthroughs essential for the future of precision medicine and personalised healthcare,” she said.
“However, the lack of a legislated ban preventing the life insurance industry’s use of genetic testing results in underwriting is causing concern for patients and eroding trust in this critical technology.
“Academy Fellows, who are at the forefront of clinical practice and research, have witnessed firsthand how these concerns are impacting Australians’ decision-making, leading some to decline genetic testing due to worries about future genetic discrimination.
“A complete ban on the use of genetic testing by life insurers would bring Australia into line with international counterparts, ensure that Australians are free from genetic discrimination, and preserve trust in health and medical science.”
As the leading body representing the health and medical sciences community, the Academy was encouraged by the government’s consultation on the use of genetic testing in life insurance underwriting, which closed in January this year.
However, while the government is yet to comment or act on the submissions, Australians’ trust in genetic testing remains shaky.
The Academy’s position statement on the use of genetic testing by life insurers calls on the government to take action now to strengthen patients and prospective research participants trust in this lifesaving technology.
The Academy’s full position statement can be read here.
Media: AAHMS Head of Media and Communication Katie Rowney,
[email protected] or P: 07 3102 7212 M: +61 (0) 419 787 551