2019 Texas Statutes
Insurance Code
Title 5 - Protection of Consumer Interests
Subtitle C - Deceptive, Unfair, and Prohibited Practices
Chapter 546 - Use of Genetic Testing Information
Subchapter B. Genetic Testing and Use of Test Results
Section 546.051. Certain Testing Permitted; Inducement Prohibited
Sec. 546.051. CERTAIN TESTING PERMITTED; INDUCEMENT PROHIBITED. (a) A health benefit plan issuer that requests an applicant for coverage under the plan to submit to a genetic test in connection with the application for coverage for a purpose not prohibited under Section 546.052 must:
(1) notify the applicant that the test is required;
(2) disclose to the applicant the proposed use of the test results; and
(3) obtain the applicant's written informed consent before the test is administered.
(b) The applicant shall state in the consent form whether the applicant elects to be informed of the test results. If the applicant elects to be informed, the person or entity that performs the test shall disclose the test results to the applicant and the health benefit plan issuer. The issuer shall ensure that:
(1) the applicant receives an interpretation of the test results made by a qualified health care practitioner; and
(2) a physician or other health care practitioner designated by the applicant receives a copy of the test results.
(c) A health benefit plan issuer may not use the results of a genetic test conducted in accordance with Subsection (a) to induce the purchase of coverage under the plan.
Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 1274, Sec. 2, eff. April 1, 2005.
Amended by:
Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 670 (S.B. 53), Sec. 3, eff. September 1, 2005.
