What type of discrimination are health insurers prohibited from engaging in?

Health insurers are prohibited from discriminating based on genetic makeup due to the protections established by the Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act (GINA). This legislation prohibits health insurance providers from using genetic information to make decisions about coverage, premiums, or eligibility for benefits. It ensures that individuals cannot be denied insurance or charged higher premiums based on their genetic predispositions to certain health conditions.

This protection is crucial in a landscape where genetic testing is becoming more common; it aims to prevent a scenario where individuals may avoid genetic testing out of fear of losing insurance coverage or facing higher costs. By prohibiting discrimination based on genetic makeup, the law promotes access to necessary testing and ensures that individuals are not unfairly penalized for their genetic information.