GINA’s Outcome Outweighs the Cost

The Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act (GINA) went into effect this weekend. GINA, which the New York Times called “the most important new anti-discrimination law in two decades,” prevents employers and insurance providers from requesting genetic information, like family histories, or requiring genetic testing. GINA will not allow employers to consider this information when hiring, firing, or promoting employees. Health insurance providers will not be able to deny coverage or set premiums and deductibles based on genetic information.

This bill was passed because Washington recognized that if GINA were not in effect, Americans may not get genetic testing for fear of losing their jobs. Genetic testing is very important because it can diagnose a disease or gauge the risk of developing a disease. The tests can then be used in choosing a treatment or making lifestyle adjustments to lower one’s risk of developing a disease. According to the National Human Genome Research Institute, a government agency, 63% of Americans polled would choose not to be tested if employers had access to the test results. How many people would get sick from diseases that could have been prevented or treated early on? From an economic position, how much health insurance money would be spent on expensive procedures, pills, and practices because a person was never genetically tested?

GINA will stop this from happening. Americans will be able to get genetic testing and will not be afraid of workplace consequences. It may be hard for some companies to adjust to the new law, but it is better to adjust now so that America’s health does not have to pay later.