Innovation is rapid, especially in this field
Technology is making advancements so rapidly it feels like there is a new breakthrough every day. This is especially true in the medical field. Technological advancements have lead to the cure for diseases previously thought to be incurable, full facial transplants, and innovations in how procedures are conducted.
Technology has also reduced the recovery time for numerous procedures and decreased fatalities in numerous procedures. With all of these advancements, it is hard to believe that one simple test can change your eligibility for life insurance, but it really can.
Life insurance is good, right?
Life insurance in an investment in yourself and your family; spend a little now and save a lot when the time comes, or at least that’s how it’s supposed to work. Even if you are currently covered with a life insurance plan, you need to know about this stipulation to avoid losing coverage, along with all the money you have already paid into your plan.
Imagine if you will our COO, Lani’s experience, as an example (told with Lani’s knowledge and permission): In 2004, she and her husband were pregnant with their first and only child, Kennedy. There were major complications throughout the pregnancy and they had to have “genetic counseling” in order to discover not only their unborn child’s genetic issues, but also their own, so they could pinpoint any future issues.
Can you imagine enduring all of these very necessary tests, only to have your insurance come back and punish you later? It doesn’t seem possible, but that’s exactly what is happening.
Isn’t that illegal?
You may be thinking this type of discrimination is illegal; I certainly thought it was, but sadly, it isn’t. While the federal government has barred health insurance companies from denying coverage to those with a risky gene mutation, the law doesn’t extend to life insurance companies, long-term care, or disability insurance.
Of course, many life insurance companies do not require you to undergo genetic testing before approving you, they may ask if you’ve done any of these test on your own. This information can then be used against you when you apply. If you choose to withhold this information and they find out, they may have a case against you for “guilt by omission.”
The takeaway on life insurance
As disappointing as this is, it’s better to know, especially if you intend on your family being cared for after you pass away. Genetic testing helps a lot of people. We certainly do not want to discourage you from getting these tests, rather inform you about the risks you may not have known were there.
Life insurance is an investment, just like anything else and the more you know, the better off you are in the long run. Did you know life insurance companies could discriminate based on these types of test results? What do you think?
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