The Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act (GINA) becomes effective Dec. 7. Yes, it really can have an effect on how you run your business.

The law prohibits employers from discriminating against individuals based on personal genetic information. That seems reasonable.

But here’s the rub: GINA rules could affect the kind of info your health plan can collect as part of a wellness program health risk assessment (HRA).

Under the new law, companies that give wellness program participants a break on plan premiums can’t collect family health history info as part of an HRA.

So you’re stuck. Without a family history, risk assessments lack an essential diagnostic tool. If you offer HRA’s without an incentive like a premium reduction, you’ll probably have fewer people willing to go through the assessment process. Either way, your wellness program could be significantly less effective overall.

For a look at how the new GINA rules could affect your wellness program, go here.