That the Association of British Insurers (ABI) has reached agreement over HIV issues with groups as ...
That the Association of British Insurers (ABI) has reached agreement over HIV issues with groups as diverse as the Terence Higgins Trust, British Medical Association and the Citizens Advice Bureau, strengthens new draft rules of the Statement of Best Practice for HIV and Insurance considerably.
The implications of HIV risk on insurers when compared with the far-reaching effects of the epidemic on society seem to fade into insignificance. That a disease that is so devastating to human life can be discussed in terms of the effect it has on insurers' profits is bound to evoke strong reactions. And that the condition itself is associated with irresponsible sexual behaviour adds yet more fuel for the fire.
So consulting all interested parties, from the medical profession and charities to lobby groups and Government, on the best way forward for insurers was never going to be a smooth ride. Calculating how to judge HIV risk fairly is one matter. Working out how to question applicants non-discriminately is a whole new minefield.
The ABI is quick to admit there have been some areas of contention in the consultation, first launched last September. What constitutes 'safe sexual behaviour' and the meaning of the question 'are you gay?' were just two issues that caused debate.
The laborious task of coming up with 'fair' questions on applications was best summed up by one stakeholder response, which stated: "If there was an easy set of questions, clinicians would be using them."
The willingness of all parties to sit down and come to agreement is down to one reason - everyone's determination to help cut infection and encourage more people to act responsibly. On that point there is no debate.
Kirstie Redford, editor
