How to Pass Life Insurance Medical Exam In 2024
Written by Daniel Ray, Life Insurance Expert |
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Fact Checked by
Lisamarie Monaco |
Editorial Disclosure
If you are searching for how to pass a life insurance medical exam, this article is for you.
If this question is bugging your mind, this article is for you. When you’re applying for life insurance, you may be required to take a medical exam. This exam assesses your overall health and determines whether you are eligible for coverage.
To ensure that you receive the best possible life insurance rates, it’s important to prepare for the exam ahead of time. In this article, we have come up with some tips to help you prepare for the life insurance medical exam.
Article Navigation
- How Can You Get An Appointment For A Life Insurance Medical Exam
- Available Options for taking a life insurance medical exam
- How Is A Life Insurance Medical Exam Conducted
- How To Pass A Life Insurance Medical Exam
- How Can You Get The Results Of A Life Insurance Medical Exam?
- What If Your Life Insurance Application Is Denied?
- How Long Should I Fast Before A Life Insurance Exam?
- FAQs
- Conclusion
Why Is A Medical Exam Important For Getting Life Insurance
A medical exam is important for getting life insurance because it provides the insurance company with information about your health.
The results of the exam can help the company determine how likely you are to die prematurely. The company can use this information to set life insurance premiums.
If you have a pre-existing condition or if you smoke, you can expect a higher premium. If you are healthy and under the age of 60, you may want to call us about our industry-leading no-medical exam term policies.
How Can You Get An Appointment For A Life Insurance Medical Exam
To make an appointment for a life insurance medical exam, you will need to contact the insurance company that you are applying for coverage.
They will provide you with a list of approved medical facilities in your area and schedule an appointment for you at one of their approved locations.
Be sure to bring any forms or documentation that the insurance company requires to the appointment.
Available Options for taking a life insurance medical exam
A life insurance medical exam is required when you apply for a life insurance policy.
The purpose of the exam is to help the life insurance company determine your risk of death and thus how much your policy should cost.
There are three main ways to take a life insurance medical exam: with a doctor, at a lab, or at home.
1. At Home
So, the third option for taking your life insurance medical exam is to do it at home. With this option, you will receive a kit in the mail that contains everything you need to take the exam. The kit will include a blood pressure cuff, stethoscope, and instructions. So, you will need to take your own urine or blood and urine samples and send them back to the life insurance company. Thereafter, the results of the tests will be used to determine your premium.
So, which option is best for you depends on your preference and schedule. All three options are valid ways to take a life insurance medical exam. Moreover, all three options will provide the life insurance company with the information they need to properly assess your risk.
2. At a Lab
Another option for taking your life insurance medical exam is to go to a lab. This option is often more convenient than going to a doctor’s office, as you can schedule an appointment for a time that is convenient for you. So, at the lab, you will need to provide a blood and urine sample. Thereafter, the results of the tests will be sent to the life insurance company, and they will use them to determine your premium.
3. With a Doctor (Examiner Present)
If you choose to take your life insurance medical exam with a doctor, you will need to schedule an appointment and go to the doctor’s office. So, the doctor will ask you questions about your health history and perform a physical examination. The life insurance physical exam will likely include measuring your height, weight, blood pressure, and heart rate. The doctor may also request blood and urine tests. So, the results of the exam will be sent to the life insurance company, and they will use them to determine your premium.
**To note, if you are a medical professional you can take the exam at your office with an examiner present.
How Is A Life Insurance Medical Exam Conducted
Height and Weight
Your height and weight will be taken at the life insurance medical exam. These calculations are used for the Body Mass Index (BMI).
Blood Pressure, Heart Rate, and Respiration
Your blood pressure, heart rate, and respiration will be taken with a standard blood pressure cuff and stethoscope.
Urine Sample
You will be asked to provide a urine sample that will be tested for sugar levels, protein, and creatinine. Abnormal results could indicate diabetes or kidney disease.
Cholesterol and Glucose Testing
A small sample of blood will be drawn from your finger to test your cholesterol and glucose levels. High cholesterol can lead to heart disease, while high glucose levels could indicate diabetes.
Blood Sample
A small blood sample will be taken to measure cholesterol levels, hemoglobin (oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood), and hematocrit (percentage of red blood cells in the blood). The blood test may also be used to test for the presence of HIV, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C.
EKG
An electrocardiogram (EKG) may be performed to check for heart conditions such as arrhythmias, enlargement of the heart or evidence of a previous heart attack. This is normally requested if you have a history of heart issues, or you are over the age of 75.
Medical History
Now, you will be asked questions about your medical history, family medical history, lifestyle, and medications. So, the insurance company will use this information to assess your risk of developing certain medical conditions.
In short, the life insurance medical exam is an important part of the application process. It helps the insurance company determine your eligibility for coverage and calculate your life insurance premium rates. The exam usually takes less than an hour and is conducted by a licensed physician.
How To Pass A Life Insurance Medical Exam
To pass a life insurance medical exam, you will need to be in good physical health and have no major health problems.
The insurance company will also want to see that you are not a high-risk for developing any serious health problems in the future. To make sure you are healthy enough to pass the exam, you should:
A few weeks before the exam
- Eat healthy foods and exercise regularly
- Avoid tobacco products, alcohol, and drugs
- Get plenty of rest
- Make sure to see your doctor for a check-up
On the day of the exam:
- Wear comfortable clothing
- Arrive early
- Relax and be honest during the exam
After the exam:
- Follow your doctor’s instructions
- If you are a smoker, quit smoking
- Eat healthily and exercise regularly
- Monitor your health and see your doctor for regular check-ups.
By following these tips, you will be well on your way to passing your life insurance medical exam with flying colors! And again, if healthy, ask us about our no medical exam term products.
How Can You Get The Results Of A Life Insurance Medical Exam?
You can get the result of a life insurance medical exam in a number of ways. Your agent or company may send you a copy of the report, or you may be able to access it online.
You can also request a copy from the doctor who administered the exam. The results of your life insurance medical exam are confidential.
So, nobody can access them without your permission. However, the insurance company may request additional information from your doctor if they have concerns about your health.
What If Your Life Insurance Application Is Denied?
There are a few different reasons why your life insurance application might be denied. Perhaps you have a pre-existing medical condition that disqualifies you from coverage.
Or maybe you didn’t disclose all of your health information on your application. Whatever the reason, being denied life insurance coverage can be frustrating and disheartening.
If you’re wondering what to do if your life insurance application is denied, here are a few options to consider:
1. Reapply with another company
If you’re healthy and don’t have any pre-existing conditions, try applying for life insurance with another company. Different life insurance companies have different underwriting standards, so you may have better luck with another provider.
2. Apply for a policy with different coverage
If you have a pre-existing medical condition, you may still be able to get life insurance coverage, but it will likely come with reduced benefits. Consider applying for a policy with different coverage limits to see if you can get approved.
3. Get a policy through your job
Many employers offer life insurance as a benefit, so if you’re denied coverage on the individual market, check to see if your job offers any options.
4. Purchase a policy that doesn’t require a life insurance medical exam
Some insurers sell a simplified issue life insurance that doesn’t require a medical exam. These policies typically have lower death benefits, but they may be an option if you can’t get approved for traditional coverage.
5. Consider a rider on your existing life insurance policy
If you have an existing life insurance policy, you may be able to add a rider that provides coverage for your pre-existing condition. This option is typically more expensive than traditional coverage, but it may be worth considering if you can’t get approved for a new policy.
If you’re denied life insurance coverage, don’t give up – there are still options available to you. Talk to your agent or life insurance broker about your options and buy a life insurance plan that works for you.
How Long Should I Fast Before A Life Insurance Exam?
The fasting period before a life insurance exam depends on the type of exam you are taking. For a standard medical exam, you should fast for at least eight hours.
For a more comprehensive exam, you should fast for at least 12 hours. Fasting for a longer period of time may be necessary if your insurance company requires it.
FAQs
What Will Disqualify Me From Life Insurance?
There are a number of things that can disqualify you from life insurance, including:
- A history of serious health problems such as cancer, heart disease, or stroke
- An active addiction to drugs or alcohol
- A dangerous occupation or hobby
- A criminal record
- A history of mental illness
How Can I Lower My Blood Pressure For An Insurance Test?
If you have high blood pressure, there are a few things you can do to normalize your blood pressure reading:
- Drink plenty of water and stay hydrated
- Avoid caffeine and other stimulants
- Get plenty of sleep
- Take deep breaths and relax
- Exercise regularly
- Eat a healthy diet
- Avoid smoking and other tobacco products
What Can I Do to Prepare for a Life Insurance Medical Exam?
To prepare, ensure you’re well-rested, avoid alcohol and caffeine, and try to reduce stress. Eating healthy and staying hydrated in the days leading up to the exam can also help.
Does Fasting Before the Exam Improve Results?
Some exams may require fasting, usually for 8-12 hours before the appointment, especially if a blood test is involved. Always follow the specific instructions provided by the insurer.
Can Regular Exercise Before the Exam Impact the Results?
Regular exercise can positively impact your overall health, but avoid intense workouts right before the exam as they can temporarily alter certain health metrics.
Should I Disclose All My Medical History During the Exam?
Yes, full disclosure of your medical history is crucial. Omitting information can lead to issues with your policy later on, including denial of claims.
How Important is it to Manage Stress and Anxiety Before the Exam?
Managing stress is important as high stress levels can affect blood pressure and heart rate. Try relaxation techniques or schedule the exam at a time when you’re typically more at ease.
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Conclusion
In conclusion, successfully passing a life insurance medical exam involves a series of steps. Firstly, scheduling an appointment requires understanding your options, whether it be in-clinic or at-home exams. The exam itself, typically straightforward, assesses your health through various tests.
To increase your chances of passing, maintain a healthy lifestyle, be aware of fasting requirements, and honestly disclose your medical history. Once the exam is completed, results are usually communicated by the insurance company.
In case of a denied application, it’s crucial to understand the reasons and explore possible solutions or alternatives. Remember, preparation and honesty are key to navigating the life insurance medical exam process effectively.
