Privacy Fears Send DNA Tests Underground

biobricks writes "The New York Times is reporting that people who could benefit from genetic testing are too afraid their health insurance companies are going to raise their rates or deny them coverage to find out the health information contained in their own genes. There is a growing "genetic underground" where people pay for their own tests so they won't have to share the results with insurers, and beg doctors not to divulge their genetic status in medical records. A bill that would ban genetic discrimination by insurers and employers — and presumably make people feel safer about taking care of their health — is stalled in the Senate. We've discussed these types of personal DNA tests in the past."

Comments

Socialized Medicine, Mandatory DNA Testing

[Nova Express]

Just wait until we get nationalized health care under Hillary or Obama. I'm sure DNA testing will eventually be made mandatory under such a regime. If the person responsible for your health care is the State, then "privacy" in such a realm no longer exits.

Of course, testing is only the first step. Expect to see those with expensive, insurable genetic conditions simply denied care, much as those over 70 are denied health care for many ailments in the UK because it's not "cost effective."

Nationalized health care is, by definition, rationed health care. DNA testing will just be another way to make it more "fair" and "rational.'