About 1,200 genetic tests can be used to identify thousands of health conditions, according to the Coalition for Genetic Fairness. Only about 100 genetic tests were available a decade ago.
Over time, the legislation has garnered support from a broad coalition of groups, including the health insurance industry. “With this landmark bipartisan legislation, Congress and the President have taken strong action to prohibit discrimination based on a person's genetic makeup and to protect patients' privacy as they pursue genetic evaluations,” Karen Ignagni, president of America's Health Insurance Plans, said in a statement. “This legislation also ensures that patients can continue to benefit from health plans' innovative early detection and care coordination programs that improve the safety and quality of care.”
But more work is needed, Ms. Terry said. “This is a first-step bill for sure.”