" Genetic Test " Exclusions !

It is now common for patients presenting for what they term " their annual checkup " to have their doctor suggest genetic tests to see if their genes predispose them for a number of common diseases.  The rationale is that if your genetics indicate that you have a higher risk of developing a life threatening condition a test regime can be put in place to catch this at an early stage.  Often, this suggestion of genetic testing is based on the medical history of other family members.

Genetic testing is now available from a growing number of medical laboratories - and the cost is ever decreasing.  It is a common and reliable tool for the medical profession and the patient is usually made aware of the results - and that poses a risk to their financial health.

The life insurance industry requires applicants for life insurance cover to truthfully answer a question that enquires whether they have knowledge of any testing results to indicate susceptibility to any form of future disease.  There is no time frame on that question, and it applies to all and every test that may have been taken, even in the distant past.

Patients are now finding that such a positive result makes them ineligible for life insurance cover. The discovery that a person may have a higher chance of developing cancer or any other life threatening medical conditions is regarded as a " pre-existing condition " and usually either cover is refused or it is only accepted in return for a higher premium hike to cover the risk.

Some patients insist that their doctor does not tell them the results of such genetic tests, but that does not solve their insurance problem.   They must disclose that such a test took place, and the insurer will certainly contact the doctor and obtain those results.   In many cases, the genetic test merely indicates that the person tested has between a thirty and a fifty percent risk of developing that disease later in life.

In fact, having that knowledge  may result in preventive measures being put in place.   A person with a family history of bowel cancer would be very likely to have regular colonoscopic examinations to remove the polyps that often become cancerous.  Such treatment usually is successful in preventing this disease establishing, even in a patient prone to that disease.

Being rejected for life insurance cover can be devastating.   It rules out income protection insurance and the usual cover of travel insurance that makes repatriation by air ambulance from overseas so comforting in the event of an accident.   The mere hint of unfavourable genetic testing sends premium levels soaring - or complete refusal.

It may even preclude home ownership.   The majority of home mortgage lenders insist on a form of life insurance in their contracts that clears the debt should a couple buying a property in joint names have the misfortune for one of them become deceased.  Failure to qualify for that form of life insurance could result in the mortgage application being refused.

It seems that anyone having genetic testing suggested by their doctor needs to think long and hard before making a decision.   That test result will form part of their medical history and the benefits it delivers must he weighed against the exclusions it may cause.

Many people are finding that their life has become vastly changed because of a test taken years previously.  That ever present collection of " data " is proving a mixed blessing !