New Zealand may be falling behind on genetic testing rules

New Zealand is lagging behind other countries when it comes to managing genetic information in insurance, according to University of Auckland associate professor Dr Rob Young. While insurers can currently use genetic test results to load premiums or exclude coverage for people with genetic predispositions, no hard rules exist yet.

Against Genetic Discrimination Aotearoa (AGenDA) is pushing for a total ban on the practice. Meanwhile, industry attempts to self-regulate have stalled due to legal concerns of anti-competitive behaviour. All of this has left the sector uncertain about how to proceed.

In a recent Financial Advice New Zealand (FANZ) webinar, Dr Young says we’ll likely go one of three ways - the Canadian, UK, or Australian route.

Global models point in different directions
Right now, New Zealand is in a “watch and follow” stage. Different countries have taken vastly different approaches to genetic testing in insurance.