What you will learn:

• Describe how genetic testing information cannot be used by insurance companies
• Recall how it's illegal for employers to use genetic testing information
• Explain the limitations of GINA

The Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act (GINA) was passed in 2008. GINA makes it illegal for health insurance companies to:

• Consider family history or results from genetic testing a pre-existing condition
• Require that you have a genetic test
• Use any genetic information they do have to deny you health insurance or change the amount you pay for your premium based on your genetic information

GINA also makes it illegal for employers to:

• Use your genetic information to make decisions about hiring, firing, promotion, pay, privileges or terms, or to otherwise discriminate against you
• Request, require or purchase the genetic information of a potential or current employee or family members

Limitations of GINA

It's important to know:

• GINA does not apply to life, disability or long-term care insurance
• If you are diagnosed with a genetic disease due to symptoms, GINA does not stop health insurance companies from denying coverage or raising premiums
• GINA does not apply to people receiving federal or military health insurance because they have other similar regulations protecting them

Additional Resources

Genome.gov: The Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act of 2008 – information for researchers and health care professionals

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services: Genetic Information

U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission: Genetic Information Discrimination