Your Life Insurance Medical Exam

When you purchase life insurance, you will probably have to submit to a medical exam. This holds true whether you’re applying for term or permanent life insurance. Usually, these exams are performed by paramedicals, who are typically independent contractors who perform the exams in your home.

A life insurance application consists of two parts: Part I, which is completed by your insurance agent while you are present, and Part II, which is a medical exam performed by a doctor or paramedical. Upon receipt of your application, the insurer will contact paramedicals in your area who specialize in mobile exams. The insurer will inform the paramedical of your personal information, the amount of insurance you’re applying for, and the insurer’s name. Most paramedicals are very well-versed in the current underwriting requirements of various life insurers.

What the Exam Entails

Paramedicals have their own supplies, so your medical exam can take place at your home or office. The exam cannot be performed by your physician, although the insurer may request an attending physician’s statement (APS) from your primary doctor. The paramedical will call you to set up an appointment or, if that doesn’t work, you may also have the option of visiting a clinic designated by the insurer. These health tests are mandatory; your application cannot be processed without them. You do not have to pay for the exam because the insurer will reimburse the paramedical or physician directly.

In a standard exam, the paramedical will record your height, weight, medical history, blood pressure, and pulse and will collect blood and urine samples. You may also have to undergo other tests depending on your age and the amount of your policy. With older applicants and policies of higher face values, you might have to submit to a treadmill test. If you are applying for only a small amount of life insurance, you may not have to submit to any health tests.

What the Insurer Is Trying to Find Out

In short, the insurer wants to know if you have any medical problems that could abbreviate your lifespan, thereby increasing the company’s risk in insuring you. Your insurer will test you for HIV, high cholesterol, diabetes, hepatitis, prostate problems, and immune disorders. Your urine will likely be tested for medications and the presence of illicit drugs. If you buy a high-dollar policy, you may have to undergo a full blood work-up. The results of the tests are sent directly to the insurance underwriter, who then uses them to determine your premiums. If questions remain about your health, you may have to undergo further testing. In the unlikely event you are found to be seriously or chronically ill, your application might be rejected.