Health services are funded differently in different countries. Some require people to have health insurance or to pay for treatment, while others are funded from general taxation.
Although many countries have passed laws that prevent genetic discrimination, it is still possible for insurance companies to deny you coverage if you have a hereditary syndrome in some places. It is a good idea to familiarise yourself with your local anti-genetic discrimination laws, and health insurance plans if you have BHD.
Most of the information here pertains to the United States, with some information about Australia, the European Union and the UK. To suggest more countries or more links, or if you have further questions, email us at contact@bhdsyndrome.org.
Australia
Health insurance premiums in Australia are set at the same rate for everyone, regardless of family history. Age is the only factor which may have an effect on premium rates.
However, life insurers can use genetic information when calculating premiums, although any genetic information used must be justifiable and reasonable. If you have genetic testing before or after taking out life insurance, you must report this to the provider, or the policy may become void.
No insurer can insist that you undergo genetic testing before taking out a policy.
Health insurance links and information from the Australian government
European Union
Healthcare plans and insurance options vary by member state, although private health insurance is estimated to only account for 3-4% of health expenditure across the EU. This means that that vast majority of healthcare is paid for by general taxation or by patients at the point of delivery.
- European Health Strategy is a summary of current EU-wide legislation on health strategies, programmes and policies.
- EU Social Security Coordination discusses EU residents’ rights, including for specific member countries
- Health at a Glance Report is a 2010 statistical overview, by the OECD, of health financing in the EU: see pp: 112-114.
- For additional information specific to the United Kingdom, the Genetic Alliance UK has published this guide to insurance.
United States
In the States, all medical bills are paid for by the patient, or by an insurance plan. You can get healthcare insurance privately, or through your employer, Medicare, Medicaid, or COBRA.
According to the terms of the Genetic Information Non-Discrimination Act (GINA), it is now illegal for any health insurer to ask you to have a genetic test, or to use genetic test results to calculate your insurance premium or as a reason to refuse you health insurance. However, insurers can (and do) use your symptoms or any treatments you’ve had to calculate your premiums.
GINA only covers health insurance. Therefore, it may be useful to look into life insurance options as early as possible if you are considering obtaining a plan.
Links
- The USA Government website provides an overview about health insurance, and information about the different types available.
- MedlinePlus offers a guide to financial assistance.
Publication date: December 2014
Review date: December 2017