How Genetic Information Impacts Life Insurance
Your genes play a significant role in determining your life insurance premiums. Insurance companies assess your risk level based on various factors, including your genetic predispositions to certain health conditions. This article explores how your DNA can affect your life insurance coverage and what you can do to protect your privacy.
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The Role of DNA in Life Insurance
Life insurance companies analyze your health information to determine the cost for your coverage. This process includes a health survey that gathers details about your medical history, lifestyle, and potentially your genetics.
Your DNA contains instructions related to developing certain medical issues. Insurers may adjust your premiums, limit coverage, or deny your application based on these insights. However, genetics are only one piece of the puzzle, and a healthy genetic profile could result in lower premiums.
How Insurers Access Your Genetic Information
Insurers may access your genetic data in the following ways:
- Medical Records: If your doctor has ordered genetic testing, the results will be part of your medical record.
- Data Providers: Some data providers purchase genetic information from at-home DNA test providers and share it with insurers.
- Direct Requests: Insurers might request your genetic test results directly during the application process.
Genetic Discrimination
The Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act (GINA) of 2008 protects individuals from genetic discrimination in health insurance. However, this law does not extend to life insurance, disability insurance, or long-term care insurance.
Experts such as Mark A. Rothstein, who researches bioethics, have voiced concerns regarding the use of genetic information in underwriting life insurance policies. The risk of genetic discrimination could lead people to avoid genetic testing altogether.
“Permitting insurers to use genetic information creates unsavory downstream effects for American workers.” —Mark A. Rothstein, University of Louisville
Protecting Your Genetic Information
To prevent insurers from accessing your genetic test results, consider the following:
- Group Life Insurance: This type of policy often does not require a medical exam or genetic test results.
- Guaranteed Issue Policies: You can purchase these policies independently; however, they are typically more expensive and may offer lower coverage amounts.
- Privacy Policies: Some at-home DNA testing companies allow you to delete your personal information. Review the privacy policies of the companies you use.
Also, you have the right to request your file from the Medical Information Bureau (MIB), a database of underwriting information used by insurance companies. You can request this file once a year, free of charge, to check for any errors.
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