Patients & families
Pregnant? Or thinking about starting a family?
How can we help you?
Common genetic questions
Health insurance is not affected by genetic test results
Health insurance in Australia is community rated, meaning the cost is not based on an assessment of individual health or risk (everyone pays the same premium). Genetic test results do not need to be disclosed.
Life insurance may be affected by genetic test results
In contrast, life insurance requires an assessment of individual risk. There is currently a moratorium (a freeze) in place (until 30th June 2024) that limits the use of genetic test results for new life insurance policies worth up to $500,000.
Above $500,000 – the insurance company can ask for genetic test results (clinical or research based), but can only use them if relevant to the cover you’re applying for.
NOTE: this moratorium is not legally enforceable. It is a self-regulated industry standard and there is no government oversight. It is likely this moratorium will be extended, but there are no guarantees.
Further reading
Australian Genomics - moratorium on genetic tests in life insurance
Centre for Genetics Education - life insurance and genetic testing in Australia
Online DNA tests (or personal genomic tests) are widely available. It’s important to consider the accuracy of these tests, what sort of information you might find out, and what happens to your personal information after testing.
Murdoch Children’s Research Institute was recently part of a study that looked at Australian’s thoughts and experiences with personal genomic testing – the Genioz study. They used their findings to develop some great community resources. These resources discuss a lot of things you should consider before having a personal genomic test.
In addition, Choice Australia and the University of Melbourne have written some good information about direct-to-consumer tests.
MTHFR stands for methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase. This gene produces an enzyme that is involved in metabolism of folate (a B vitamin) in the body. MTHFR gene testing is promoted by some complementary health practitioners when investigating certain conditions (e.g. infertility).
However, there is no evidence that links the MTHFR gene with any disease or condition. Therefore, the information you gain from testing is unlikely to improve your health or management of any conditions. Our fact sheet contains more detail.