Certified Leave Management Specialist (CLMS) Certification Practice Test

According to GINA, what type of information is considered protected genetic information?

1. Only the employee's medical history

2. The employee's medical history and any family members' medical history if linked to genetic testing

3. Any medical history including family members without regard to genetic testing

4. Only genetic information that indicates a confirmed health issue

The correct answer is: Any medical history including family members without regard to genetic testing

The correct choice highlights that protected genetic information encompasses a broad range of details, specifically any medical history about an employee and family members, regardless of whether it is linked to genetic testing. GINA, or the Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act, aims to protect individuals from discrimination based on their genetic information, which includes not just the individual’s genetic test results but also the medical histories of family members, as these can reflect predispositions to certain health conditions. By recognizing that family medical history is considered protected even if it isn’t directly tied to genetic testing, GINA ensures a comprehensive form of protection. This is crucial because the understanding of genetic risks often requires a broader context that includes familial health patterns. In essence, the law acknowledges that genetics can play a significant role in health outcomes and seeks to protect individuals from discrimination based on this knowledge.