I know you're skeptical... but I have proof.
President Bush yesterday signed legislation into law that will bar health insurance companies or employers from denying or canceling coverage, hiking premiums or making decisions on hiring, firing and compensation based on genetic test results.
I imagine the shock you're feeling right now. You may be wondering "how can this be"? I understand. These feelings are perfectly natural. Own them.
For once in his life, to the astonishment of the angels, President George W. Bush did something right. Something that will benefit the American people, even though it may (perhaps) cut into the profits of health insurers.
More below the fold...
Rep. Louise Slaughter (D-N.Y.), a microbiologist with a master's degree in public health, introduced the first genetic antidiscrimination legislation 13 years ago. GINA supporters believe the act will encourage people to take advantage of the more than 1,000 genetic tests now available to diagnose and assess risk of diseases without fear of losing their jobs or being denied insurance coverage for doing so.
I know for certain that there are people out there who have been afraid to take tests that may reveal potential health problems for fears of being cut off (or experience punitive rate hikes) by their insurers. Even though having such information may ultimately save their lives.
Similarly, employers won't be able to target people for merely having genes that might cause them to develop diseases.
So, this bill being signed is really a good thing. This is a necessary law that takes into account advances in technology that can help unmask serious illness before it manifests: and the best health care is preventative.
I don't know how this possibly slipped under Bush's pen. Surely there must have been some kind of mistake. Perhaps someone distracted him with a shiny object. Whatever the reason, I'm glad.