For Immediate Release

Contact: John M. Martino
Phone Number:  (215) 895-1186
Date: 03/01/01

USP Health Tip:

 Genetic Advances Have Benefits But Also Consequences

The Human Genome Project will revolutionize the world of medicine and business.  Genetic technology will allow the pharmaceutical industry to customize products for individual patients, physicians will be able to predict health outcomes of patients years in advance, insurers will be able to predict future health costs, and employers will be able to screen employees for susceptibility to occupational diseases.  But there are drawbacks, as well. Privacy of patients' medical records may be compromised, genomic drugs may be expensive, insurance companies may discriminate against individuals who are susceptible to diseases, and employers may discriminate against genetically vulnerable workers.  Dr. Robert Field, director of the health policy program at University of the Sciences in Philadelphia, says these serious ethical, economic and social costs are addressed only partially by legal measures such as the federal HIPAA Law of 1996 and the Americans With Disabilities Act.  There will be a need for new genetic protections.

"HIPAA prohibits insurers from discriminating in coverage based on genetic profiles, but it applies only to group health insurance and not individual coverage," says Dr. Field.  "The Americans with Disabilities Act provides a broad range of protection for people with disabilities, but it is not clear whether this applies to someone who is not yet symptomatic.

"In many cases, laws are passed in response to a dramatic situation, such as incidents of overt discrimination or confidential data leaking out," adds Dr. Field.  "However, new laws may not be sufficient.  We'll be seeing whole new paradigms for many businesses based on genetics and new concepts will be needed.."

"Integration of genetic findings into our business structure and social fabric will take more than new laws," says Dr. Field.  "We're going to see a fundamental restructuring of many aspects of health care and business."  

To arrange an interview with Dr. Field, contact John M. Martino at (215) 895-1186.

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