Learn More About The Medical Exam

Most life insurance companies require a medical examination as part of the life insurance application process. This medical exam can be completed at your home or any other convenient location. It takes about 15-30 minutes and is conducted by a licensed paramedical or medical doctor. The medical exam generally involves a blood and urine specimen, blood pressure reading, height and weight measurement, and sometimes a series of questions regarding your medical history.

To help you learn more about the medical exam, we have put together a list of common questions customers have about the life insurance medical exam and some quick tips on how to prepare for your medical exam.

Note: The responses and quick tips provided are basic information for medical exams. Specific procedures, policies, protocols, and requirements may vary.

Common Questions Asked

• Who Performs the Medical Exam?

• How Much Does the Medical Exam Cost and Who Pays for It?

• What Is Included in the Medical Exam and How Long Will It Take?

• What Kind of Medical History Will Be Asked?

• Are There Any Other Requirements?

• What Happens with My Medical Exam Information?

• Where and When Will the Life Insurance Medical Exam Take Place?

• Will I Get a Copy of the Lab Test Results?

Quick Tips

• How to Prepare for Your Medical Exam

Who Performs the Medical Exam?

Medical examinations are performed by licensed paramedical examiners in your area.

How Much Does the Medical Exam Cost and Who Pays for It?

The life insurance provider pays for the medical exam. There is no cost to you.

What Is Included in the Medical Exam and How Long Will It Take?

A routine medical exam includes a review of your medical history, including the names of doctors you've seen, dates you saw them, and any treatment recommended. A basic physical exam (height, weight, blood pressure, pulse) is conducted, a urine specimen, and blood work is also taken. In some cases, some insurance companies may also require EKGs and/or treadmill EKGs (stress tests), for certain life insurance policies. A licensed paramedical examiner (often an independent contractor) who is paid by the insurance company will typically conduct the exam. The exam is usually completed within 30 minutes.

What Kind of Medical History Will Be Asked?

The examiner will ask questions regarding medical conditions, surgeries, medications, or other treatments you may have had. The examiner will also ask the names and addresses of physicians and/or hospitals that have treated you. You may wish to collect this information in advance to save time during the exam.

Are There Any Other Requirements?

If additional testing such as a questionnaire, electrocardiogram (EKG), or a blood test is required, the arrangements will be made by the examiner.

What Happens with My Medical Exam Information?

All information obtained during the medical exam is strictly confidential and is sent to the insurance company as part of your application for life insurance.

Where and When Will the Life Insurance Medical Exam Take Place?

One of the life insurance company's approved paramedical examiners will call you to schedule an appointment at your earliest convenience. To meet your needs, the medical exam may be performed at your home, office, or any other agreed upon location.

Will I Get a Copy of the Lab Test Results?

You can request a copy of the lab test results directly from the life insurance company or you may send a letter with your application. To request your results by letter, write to the life insurance company asking for a copy of your lab test results on an 8.5 x 11 inch sheet of paper. Please include your name, address, the date and your signature.

How to Prepare for Your Medical Exam

To obtain the best possible results from your life insurance medical exam, we suggest that you follow these basic steps:

• Undressing is not required; however, please wear a short-sleeved garment or one with sleeves that easily roll up.

• Try to fast for at least eight hours before your exam (12 hours is preferred). You may drink water.

• The best time to do your exam is in the morning. If a weekday is not convenient, check with your examiner to see if you can arrange an appointment for Saturday or Sunday.

• Drink a glass of water an hour or so before the exam to facilitate obtaining a urine specimen.

• Avoid coffee, soda, tea or other products with caffeine for several hours before the exam.

• Avoid smoking or chewing tobacco for at least one hour prior to your scheduled appointment.

• Avoid alcoholic beverages for at least 24 hours prior to the exam.

• Avoid nasal decongestants.

• If you require a large blood pressure cuff, let the examiner know prior to the appointment.

• Get a good night's rest before the medical exam.

• Schedule the appointment for the least stressful time of the day.

• Have your photo identification available.

• Do not engage in strenuous exercise for 24 hours before the exam.

• Prepare in advance for questions regarding medical conditions, surgeries, medications, or other treatments you may have had. The examiner will also ask you for the names and addresses of physicians and/or hospitals that have treated you.