TUC: Society says "Genetic testing by employers and insurance companies must be regulated"
A public debate is needed to make sure that genetic testing by
employers and insurance companies is open and fair, the TUC Congress
meeting in Brighton was told by Gill Dolbear, the Society's vice-
president.
In 2011, the current moratorium on genetic testing by the insurance industry ends and there is an urgent need to have a clear policy on the use and storage of sensitive and personal data.
“Without realistic and enforceable controls, employers and insurers will rely on self-regulation,” Gill said.
“Technology has brought down the cost of screening and access to genetic testing. There is significant potential for misuse and discrimination in the workplace and the wider community.”
A review of current arrangements is due to take place next year and unions are calling for full public debate on what is acceptable practice.
“We need robust and mechanisms to regulate and manage genetic testing,” Gill commented. “Otherwise, there is the possibility that unscrupulous employers and insurers could use a genetic predisposition to, say, cancer, to discriminate against individuals.”
The debate at the TUC follows on from attempts to introduce legislation in the United States to ban businesses from using genetic test results to make employment decisions. The legislation also would stop insurers from requiring genetic tests, obtaining test results, and from using the results of tests to increase insurance premiums, or deny coverage.
Posted: 12/09/2007
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