For the past seven years, insurance companies in the United Kingdom have voluntarily chosen not to genetically test 97% of potential clients. As of today, these insurance companies have agreed to extend their voluntary freeze until 2014. This is in order to ensure that people can receive health and life insurance without having to disclose potential genetic diseases, at least for the time being.

The ability to genetically test patients for diseases is a controversial topic, especially as a means of deciding premiums or acceptance to an insurance program. The controversy has been the source of much debate both in the UK and the US. In fact, earlier this year, the United States banned discrimination based on genetic information. While Britain has not had such a legal ban, the insurance companies have put a moratorium on its use.

Some have argued that a ban on genetic testing should continue until the testing is proved to be used responsibly and effectively. Conversely, many claim that genetic testing is no different than looking at family histories or revealing past medical conditions.

With the possibility of lifting this ban in the future, those looking to buy insurance should take action sooner rather than later. Both in England and the United States, the debate rages on and as long as nothing has been decided, the best time to buy insurance is now.

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