BCBSA Commends Administration And Congress On Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act
Statement from Scott P. Serota, president and CEO, Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association
May 21, 2008
WASHINGTON – Scott P. Serota, president and chief executive officer of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association (BCBSA), released the following statement in response to President Bush's signing into law of the Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act (GINA):
"The Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association applauds the president for signing the Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act which protects Americans from discrimination and the unauthorized use of their genetic information. We also commend Congress for bringing all interested parties together in shaping this important legislation.
"Blue Cross and Blue Shield companies do not deny coverage to members based on their confidential genetic profiles, and we support protections on the use of such data. We are very pleased GINA encourages patients to obtain appropriate genetic testing to take advantage of prevention and effective treatment - rather than delay potentially life-saving care.
"We are proud to have played a leadership role in the creation of consensus on such a complex issue, and we believe GINA should serve as a model for addressing future healthcare issues."
The Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association is a national federation of 39 independent, community-based and locally operated Blue Cross and Blue Shield companies that collectively provide healthcare coverage for more than 100 million individuals - one-in-three Americans. For more information on the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association and its member companies, please visit www.BCBS.com.
