Is It Ethical and Legal to Include Pregnancy Tests in Pre-Employment Medical Checkups?

Dear Members,

I am working for a Pharma R&D centre. I have initiated the Pre-Employment Medical Check-Up, which includes the general examination, Cardiac & Diabetic Profile, Liver & Kidney Profile, Blood profile, etc. I have been asked to include the pregnancy detection test for female candidates. My question is: Is this ethical and legal? We have a Personal Profile to be filled by the prospective candidates wherein they have to declare if they are pregnant. But as an organization, can the test be conducted on them, with their valid consent. What is the general trend that is being followed in most organizations? I would be grateful if members would share their views on this.

Looking forward to an interactive discussion!

Regards,
Anuradha Zingade

Dear Azing_00,

There is nothing unethical or illegal in asking for a pregnancy test because:

1) For Medical Expenditure Coverage Insurances, you need to disclose the information. In the absence of disclosure, the Insurance Company may not (in most cases, will not) reimburse or entertain the claim.

2) The Maternity Leave available to the employee may disrupt work schedules and plans.

When asking for a pregnancy test, just remember two things:

1) Prior permission should be taken from the candidate.

2) It should not be asked from unmarried women.

Regards,

SC