Genetics Ethics

Knowledge is seen by some as being a powerful tool, though in the wrong hands and the wrong circumstances, this power could be potentially damaging. This is one of the frequently raised debates about the ethics of genetic testing. More specifically, it relates to the access to such knowledge and the use of this knowledge.

If a provider of private medical insurance had the right to access the results of a genetic test under the terms of an application for private medical cover, that information could be used to discriminate against the applicant. Say the genetic testing determined the absolute certainty that an individual was going to acquire an incurable condition at some point in their life, though not specified for certain when, that provider may refuse cover or set out extortionate premiums. This would effectively make the service unavailable purely because of the personal decision the applicant chose to make in learning about their future.

What if the company offering private medical insurance were able to insist on an applicant undertaking a genetic test to determine the likelihood of the applicant developing an illness or condition that could be hereditary? If the applicant refused such a test, the insurance company might refuse the provision of medical cover on the grounds that their application requirements were not met.

The ethics of genetic testing is a tricky subject with myriad implications. The benefits of genetics testing are huge, but it’s vital that these incredible advancements are used only for good and never for the personal or financial gain of an individual or organisation at the expense of another.