A step forward, but still inadequate: Australian health professionals’ views on the genetics and life insurance moratorium

Genetic discrimination is an ongoing issue in Australia, and is a matter of clinical, educational, political and consumer concern. In 2019, the Australian life insurance industry introduced a partial moratorium (ban) limiting the use of genetic test results in life insurance underwriting. The moratorium is industry self-regulated and applies only to policies below certain financial limits. We surveyed Australian health professionals (HPs) who discuss genetic testing with patients about their views and experiences about genetic discrimination and the moratorium. In summary, HPs feel that although the moratorium is a step in the right direction, it does not sufficiently allay their concerns and concerns expressed to them by patients about genetic discrimination. Overwhelmingly, HPs feel stronger regulation and ultimately legislation is required in Australia. (By Jane Tiller, https://jmg.bmj.com/content/early/2021/09/20/jmedgenet-2021-107989 )

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