Life Insurance Medical Exam: Weighing Your Options

Life insurance medical exams are a standard part of the application process for most term and permanent life insurance policies. The exam is used to determine the applicant's health and mortality risk, which in turn helps the insurer decide on the eligibility and cost of coverage. The exam is usually carried out by a third party at the applicant's home, workplace, or a local exam center, and typically takes less than 30 minutes. It includes a series of health questions and a physical examination, which may involve measuring height, weight, pulse, and blood pressure, as well as blood and urine tests. While some insurers may require an electrocardiogram (EKG), others may also request a saliva sample or X-rays. The results of the exam can have a significant impact on the cost of life insurance, with higher-risk individuals often facing higher premiums.

Blood pressure

If you have high blood pressure, you may still be able to find affordable life insurance. Most life insurance companies have acceptable ranges for elevated blood pressure. Some companies will overlook blood pressure prescriptions as long as the medication is keeping your blood pressure within a normal range. Every company has different guidelines, and some are much better than others for applicants with a history of hypertension.

If you have slightly elevated blood pressure, you may find that your life insurance premiums are at least 50% higher. However, if your blood pressure is well-controlled with medication, you may be able to get approved at a "preferred best" rate. This is because a life insurance company is more likely to approve an applicant at a "preferred best" rate if their blood pressure is within a normal range with medication than an applicant with high blood pressure who is not taking medication. This is due to the health risks associated with having elevated blood pressure for extended periods.

High blood pressure can increase your chances of having a stroke or heart attack, and it can even indicate cardiovascular disease. Therefore, life insurance companies want to see that you are being proactive and managing your blood pressure by keeping it in an acceptable range.

To prepare for your life insurance medical exam, there are several things you can do to lower your blood pressure:

• Eat less salt
• Maintain a healthy weight
• Relieve stress
• Limit your alcohol and caffeine intake
• Eat more potassium
• Perform regular aerobic exercise

It's important to note that making these changes close to your exam date may not significantly impact your blood pressure. If you have chronic high blood pressure, you should consult a medical professional for guidance on managing your blood pressure.

Blood tests

The blood tests are used to look for specific health markers and verify the information provided in the application. For example, if an applicant has stated that they are not a smoker, but the blood test indicates the presence of nicotine, this may raise a red flag for the insurance company.

• HIV or AIDS: If you are receiving proper care for HIV, you may not be denied coverage, but you may pay a higher premium.
• STDs: Having a sexually transmitted disease does not necessarily mean you will be unable to get a policy.
• Cholesterol: Insurers are usually interested in total cholesterol levels and the ratio of total cholesterol to HDL cholesterol, as this can impact your risk group and policy premium.
• Hemoglobin A1C, glucose levels: Hemoglobin measures long-term blood sugar levels. If it is elevated above 5.7 percent, it could indicate a risk of diabetes.
• Kidney disease: As with all chronic conditions, there may be a greater chance of being turned down for a policy, and the premium will likely be higher.
• Diabetes: Diabetes usually makes it more difficult to acquire life insurance, but if it is actively managed, you may still qualify for coverage.
• Recreational or illegal drugs: Testing for substances like marijuana, cocaine, or other drugs helps insurers gauge risk. The presence of recreational drugs can influence underwriting decisions or even disqualify an applicant, depending on the policy guidelines.
• Prescription medications: Insurers often check for the presence of prescribed drugs in the blood to verify any treatments and avoid misunderstandings during the underwriting process.
• Nicotine: Any sign of nicotine or cotinine in the system will likely lead to higher rates. If you are using a nicotine patch, vape, or gum, you should indicate this in your application, as the blood test cannot differentiate how the nicotine entered your system.
• Liver disease: A blood test will check liver enzymes for various factors, including total bilirubin, protein, albumin, and globulin. It can also detect any form of hepatitis, which may affect your premium and risk class.
• Enzyme levels: Checking enzyme levels can show if there is inflammation around your organs, which could include cardiac or liver conditions. The results may prevent approval or alter your final life insurance risk group and rate.

To prepare for a blood test as part of a life insurance medical exam, it is recommended that you:

• Schedule your exam carefully, preferably for the morning when your body is naturally fasted, and at a calm time when you won't be rushed or stressed.
• Stay hydrated and eat well in the days leading up to the test.
• Get adequate sleep the night before your exam.
• Bring relevant medical information and identification to the appointment.
• Avoid strenuous activities prior to your exam, opting for light activity like a walk instead.
• Wear comfortable, lightweight clothing that allows easy access for blood draws.

It is worth noting that while most life insurance companies use medical exams to determine eligibility and pricing, there are some types of policies that do not require a medical exam, such as guaranteed issue and simplified issue policies. These policies tend to have higher premiums and lower coverage amounts due to the limited health information provided.

Urine tests

A urine test is a standard part of a life insurance medical exam. The examiner will ask you to provide a urine sample, which will be used to check for kidney issues, drug use, and other health problems. This is known as a urinalysis test, which examines the appearance, contents, and concentration of your urine.

The urine test will look for pre-existing health conditions and diseases, including:

• Urinary tract infections
• Cystitis, or bladder inflammation
• Kidney infections
• Liver problems

Drug Screening

• Amphetamines/methamphetamines
• Cocaine
• Opiates
• Phencyclidine (PCP)
• Barbiturates
• Benzodiazepines
• Methadone
• Marijuana
• Nicotine
• Diuretics

The results of the urinalysis test will impact the cost of your insurance policy. If you are in good health, the test may be beneficial as you could qualify for a standard or preferred rating, resulting in lower premiums. However, if the test reveals medical conditions or drug use, you may have to pay higher premiums or be denied coverage altogether.

Not all insurance policies require urinalysis. There are ""no-exam" life insurance policies that do not require medical examinations or urine tests. These policies typically have higher rates, and issuance may depend on the answers provided in the application's health questionnaire. Additionally, if you obtain life insurance through your employer, you will likely not be subject to a medical examination or urine test.

Weight and height

It is important to note that your height and weight measurements are not the only factors considered by the insurance company. They will also take into account your blood pressure, results from blood and urine tests, and other health markers. However, your weight and height are crucial components of the medical exam and can significantly impact your life insurance eligibility and premium.

To ensure accurate measurements, there are a few things you should keep in mind. Firstly, wear lightweight clothing during the exam as heavy clothes can add extra weight. Secondly, stand as straight as possible when your height is being measured. Slouching can affect your height-to-weight ratio, which directly impacts your insurance quotes. Additionally, it is recommended to fast for at least six hours before the exam and avoid strenuous exercise or intense workouts for 12 hours beforehand, as these activities can affect your weight and overall measurements.

If you are concerned about your weight and how it might impact your life insurance application, there are steps you can take to improve your health and potentially achieve a more favourable BMI. Maintaining a balanced and healthy diet, regular exercise, and consulting with a healthcare professional can help you manage your weight and improve your overall health. Remember, making significant changes to your lifestyle, such as losing excess weight, can also be a valid reason to request a re-evaluation of your medical exam results and potentially lower your insurance coverage costs.

Health questionnaire

The life insurance application process involves a medical exam, which is similar to an annual physical. The exam includes a health questionnaire and a physical examination.

The health questionnaire is a verbal or phone interview that takes place during the physical exam. You will be asked a series of questions about your health, lifestyle, and social habits, including current prescriptions, family medical history, recent hospitalisations, and doctors' recommendations. It is important that your answers to these questions match the information provided in your application.

Physical Examination

The physical examination includes measuring your height, weight, pulse, and blood pressure, as well as taking blood and urine samples. The examiner will also check your identity by verifying your driver's license or another form of government-issued ID.

In some cases, additional tests may be required, such as an electrocardiogram (EKG), stress test, or chest X-ray, depending on the insurance company's guidelines, your age, and the desired coverage amount.

The results of the medical exam will be used by the insurer to evaluate your overall risk and determine the price of your insurance policy.

Frequently asked questions