Orlando Harmon
Life insurance is still an option for people who have had a stent fitted, but the procedure will affect the way insurance companies evaluate you and your policy will likely be more expensive.
Insurance companies will want to know the specifics of your situation, including your age, the date of your stent procedure, the number of stents, the type of stent, the results of any follow-up tests, and whether you've made any positive lifestyle changes.
Most insurance companies will not consider your case until at least six months after your stent procedure, and some will postpone if you are under 40.
The older you are when you have the procedure, the more likely you are to get a better health rating.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Can you get life insurance if you have a stent? | Yes |
| How long should you wait after getting a stent before applying for life insurance? | 6 months to a year |
| What factors affect the life insurance rate? | Number of stents, age, health status, lifestyle changes, medications, ejection fraction, etc. |
| How much higher will the life insurance rate be? | The starting price will be around twice the normal price. |
What You'll Learn
How many stents do you have?
The number of stents you have is a key factor in determining your eligibility for life insurance and the premiums you will be required to pay. While having one or two stents may not significantly impact your ability to obtain life insurance, multiple stenting procedures or a high number of stents could indicate a higher risk to insurers. This may lead to higher premiums or, in some cases, difficulty in obtaining coverage.
Insurers often view a higher number of stents as an indicator of increased health risks, particularly if the stents were placed due to a heart attack or other cardiovascular event. Underwriters will typically request detailed information about your stenting history, including the dates they were inserted and the reason for their placement. This information helps them assess the overall risk and determine the appropriate policy terms.
If you have undergone multiple stenting procedures, providing comprehensive medical records and documentation to the insurer is essential. This allows them to accurately evaluate your health status and make an informed decision regarding your life insurance application. Being transparent and furnishing complete information can facilitate the underwriting process and ensure you receive the most accurate coverage options.
It is worth noting that the impact of stents on life insurance eligibility and premiums can vary across different insurance providers. Some insurers may have more favourable policies towards individuals with multiple stents, so it is advisable to explore offerings from different companies. Consulting with a qualified insurance broker or advisor can aid in finding the most suitable coverage for your specific circumstances.
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Have you had a heart attack or stroke?
If you have had a heart attack or stroke, you will likely qualify for a "substandard rating" with some companies. In this situation, there are many factors that will need to be considered, so it's best to call us directly so that we can provide you with an accurate quote.
If you have had a heart attack, you may expect to undergo more scrutiny from the insurance company and could be offered less coverage for higher rates; they may decline to offer coverage. Also, you may not be able to secure some of the policy options available to someone in good health.
The more serious the heart attack, the more difficult it may be to get insurance.
If you have had a stroke, this could postpone your life insurance approval or negatively affect your rates.
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How long ago was your stent procedure?
The length of time since your stent procedure will have a significant impact on your life insurance application. The first six months after a stent procedure are considered high-risk for complications, and most insurance companies will postpone your application until this period has passed. This gives your doctor time to assess your recovery and determine whether further treatment is needed.
If you apply for life insurance within six months of your stent procedure, you may face higher premiums or even a declined application. However, if you wait at least six months, your chances of obtaining life insurance at more affordable rates improve significantly. This waiting period allows insurance companies to see that your condition is stable and that you are not experiencing any post-surgery complications.
Therefore, when it comes to life insurance applications, the longer it has been since your stent procedure, the better. This extended time frame demonstrates a lower risk profile and can lead to more favourable rates and approval from insurance providers.
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What is your current ejection fraction?
Your current ejection fraction is a crucial piece of information for life insurance companies when determining eligibility and rates. Ejection fraction is a measurement used to calculate the percentage of blood that leaves your heart each time it contracts. In other words, it's a measure of how well your heart is working.
The higher your ejection fraction, the better. A measurement of 55 or higher is considered normal, but most life insurance carriers will want to see at least 45 or greater. Anything below 40 is a red flag.
To determine your ejection fraction, your doctor can use a variety of imaging techniques, including an echocardiogram, cardiac MRI, cardiac catheterization, cardiac nuclear medicine scan, or cardiac CT scan.
If you're applying for life insurance after a heart stent procedure, be prepared to answer questions about your current ejection fraction, as this will be a key factor in the underwriting process.
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Have you made any lifestyle changes to improve your health?
After a stent procedure, it is important to make certain lifestyle changes to improve your health and prevent further cardiac issues. Here are some key changes to consider:
Quit Smoking
Smoking cessation is crucial after angioplasty and stent placement. Smoking can damage artery linings and cause fat build-up, leading to narrowed arteries and hampered blood flow. Both active and passive smoking increase the likelihood of severe heart conditions due to smoke exposure.
Healthy Diet
Adopting a healthy diet is essential. Patients are advised to avoid unhealthy foods high in sodium, cholesterol, trans fats, and saturated fats. Instead, focus on consuming green leafy vegetables, whole grains, fish, low-fat dairy, fibre, and dry fruits. A balanced diet, as advised by a dietician or healthcare professional, will ensure you get all the necessary nutrients for recovery and maintaining heart health.
Increase Physical Activity
Increasing physical activity is recommended, but it's important to start slowly and follow your doctor's guidance. Begin with light to moderate activities like short walks or stair climbing, and gradually increase the intensity. Avoid strenuous workouts and heavy lifting for at least six weeks post-procedure.
Weight Management
If you are obese, managing your weight is crucial. Obesity is directly linked to cardiac arrests, so it's important to take steps to address this issue. Combine physical activity with a healthy diet, regulate calorie intake, and introduce nutritious foods like vegetables and fruits to manage your weight naturally.
Stress Reduction
Stress can aggravate heart conditions and lead to blood pressure problems and artery damage. Practising relaxation techniques such as yoga and meditation can help reduce stress levels and maintain heart health.
Alcohol Consumption
Limit your alcohol intake as excessive consumption can lead to increased blood pressure, strokes, irregular heartbeats, and heart muscle diseases. Alcohol also contributes to obesity and fatigue, which are risk factors for heart problems.
Regular Follow-ups
It is important to attend regular follow-up appointments with your doctor to monitor your recovery and check for any complications. Keep an eye on your cholesterol and blood sugar levels, and consult your doctor if you experience any sudden pains or changes in your health.
Overall, making these lifestyle changes can help improve your health and increase your life span after stent placement. They can also help you attain better cardiac health in the long run, leading to a more energetic and improved quality of life.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, it is possible to get life insurance after having a stent fitted, but there are a few factors that will affect your eligibility and the cost of your premiums.
Many insurance companies prefer to wait for a period of at least six months after the procedure to see how well you are recovering and managing your heart health. You will also need to disclose your overall medical history, including the reason for the stent placement, which vessel was stented, the overall condition of your heart, and any other general health conditions.
The cost of life insurance will be higher due to the increased risk associated with your heart condition. How much higher depends on the risk category you fall into, which is determined by factors such as your current health status, the type of life insurance you are applying for, your age, the number of stents you have, and the results of any follow-up tests.
The best way to ensure that you obtain an affordable life insurance policy is by working with an agent that works with multiple life insurance carriers, as some life insurance companies will automatically decline an applicant with any history of an angioplasty or bypass surgery, while other companies may charge you much higher rates.
