GINA compliant health risk assessments released by Gordian Health Solutions

Personal health coaching company Gordian Health Solutions, Inc. has released updated versions of both its online and paper-based health risk assessments (HRAs) in order to fully comply with the Genetic Information Non-Discrimination Act of 2008 (GINA). The regulations implementing the GINA legislation, which go into effect December 7, 2009, prohibit health plans and employers from offering financial incentives to individuals participating in HRAs that request genetic information, such as family medical history.

An early pioneer in the wellness industry, Gordian administers thousands of HRAs each year. HRAs are used in health promotion programs to evaluate a person’s overall state of health and to develop tailored programs and services to improve health status. These appraisals typically consist of questions about an individual’s lifestyle and personal and family medical history.

“As a recognized leader in the HRA market, Gordian has quickly and deliberately adjusted our assessment, and we will continue to provide the best-in-class product for our customers. While the GINA guidelines are controversial, and many stakeholders are concerned about the effects the regulations may have on workplace health promotion, Gordian has been able to rapidly adjust our assessment due to our flexible, adaptable platform,” said Chris Hunter, president and CEO of Gordian.

“Now fully compliant with the new GINA legislation, our HRA still provides an exceptional way to help employees identify their own personal health risks and focus on the areas of wellness and lifestyle improvements that add both quality and years to their life. We’ll be watching GINA-related developments closely while continuing to provide our employer, health plan and government customers with the best possible service,” continued Mr. Hunter.

Gordian’s interactive health risk assessment, called the iHA, captures a range of information about health and lifestyle, including readiness-to-change. Gordian’s iHA goes beyond the basics to offer state-of-the-art features, including online and bilingual formats. Gordian incorporates innovative methods for estimating life expectancy, as well as life years gainable for the individual by making recommended lifestyle changes.

The original health risk appraisal, called “Healthier People,” was released in the 1980s and developed by Gordian employees in conjunction with the Centers for Disease Control and Carter Center at Emory University. Today, with decades of experience in the HRA market, Gordian develops custom and standard HRAs for organizations across the United States and internationally.