Life Insurance Exam Results: How Long To Wait?

Life insurance is a significant financial decision that requires careful consideration. As part of the application process, individuals undergo a paramedical examination, which plays a crucial role in determining their eligibility for coverage and the associated premium rates. This exam, often conducted by trained paramedics or medical professionals, includes a comprehensive review of an individual's medical history, vital statistics, and diagnostic tests such as blood and urine samples. The results of these tests can have a direct impact on the cost and availability of life insurance. While the exam may cause anxiety, it is typically a quick and straightforward process, usually completed within 20 minutes to an hour. Understanding what to expect and how to prepare can help individuals approach the paramedical exam with confidence and ensure the best possible outcome for their life insurance application.

What is a paramedical exam?

A paramedical examination, or 'paramed' exam, is a screening process used by insurance companies to determine an individual's eligibility for their life insurance policy. The exam is conducted by a medical professional and involves gathering data about the applicant's medical history and current medical status. This includes taking measurements such as height, weight, blood pressure, and pulse. The exam may also include blood and urine tests, an EKG, and/or an X-ray, depending on the insurer's requirements.

The paramedical exam is a common requirement for life insurance applications, particularly when applying for a high "death benefit". The exam allows the insurance company to perform a comprehensive evaluation of the applicant's current health and determine their insurance rates and eligibility. The results of the exam can also influence the type of life insurance available to the applicant and the premium they will pay.

The paramedical exam can be completed at an examination centre or at the applicant's home or workplace, depending on their preference. The examination time varies, typically ranging from 20 to 60 minutes, depending on the services required by the insurance company.

In addition to the medical examination, the paramedical process may include a medical history interview, which can be conducted over the phone or during the examination. This interview covers medical history, medications, and dosages, as well as lifestyle choices such as alcohol consumption, tobacco use, and exercise habits.

The results of the paramedical exam are forwarded to the insurance company for assessment, and they determine whether to approve or deny coverage. The exam results are typically available within 7 to 14 days, and applicants can access their results through a secure website or by contacting their insurance agent or company.

How long does it take?

The duration of a paramedical exam depends on the services required by your insurance company. The examination time can vary from 10 minutes to an hour or more. Here is a breakdown of the estimated times for different procedures:

• 10–20 minutes for blood draw and urine sample collection.
• 20–40 minutes for a paramedical exam, including blood draw and urine sample.
• 30–60 minutes for a paramedical exam, blood draw, urine sample, and EKG.
• 15–45 minutes for the entire life insurance medical exam process, depending on the tests included.

The approval process after the exam may take a few days to a few weeks, depending on your insurer. During this time, the insurance company will receive your lab results and exam forms and will review your application. If no additional requirements are needed, you can typically expect approval within 2–3 weeks of completing the exam.

What does it include?

A paramedical exam is a personal interview that allows the insurance company to gather information about your medical history and perform an evaluation of your current health. This includes a medical history questionnaire, body measurements, and a urine and blood sample.

The exam will record your height, weight, blood pressure, and pulse. The examiner will also collect blood, urine, and oral fluid samples. Depending on the insurer's underwriting guidelines for your age and insurance amount, the exam may also include an EKG and/or X-ray.

The medical history questionnaire will ask about your health, lifestyle, and family medical history. It's important to be honest and thorough in your disclosures. The questionnaire may include questions such as:

• Have you been diagnosed with or treated for high blood pressure, heart conditions, cancer, GI problems, endocrine disorders, respiratory problems, mental or nervous disorders, brain disorders, AIDS, or any disorders of the blood or immune system?
• Do you drink alcohol? If so, how often?
• Have you ever used illegal drugs?
• Do you smoke or use other types of tobacco? If so, what types, how often, and when did you quit?

The body measurements taken will include your height, weight, heart rate, and blood pressure.

The blood and urine samples will be tested for a range of health indicators, including:

• Blood sugar levels
• Kidney function
• Liver function
• Cholesterol
• Hepatitis
• Blood cell counts
• PSA levels
• Illegal drugs
• Cotinine

The results of these tests will be sent to the insurance company for assessment and will help determine your eligibility for a policy and the rate they can offer.

How to prepare

A paramedical exam is a screening process used by insurance companies to determine your eligibility for their life insurance policy. The results of the exam will determine whether the insurance rates are affordable, rated, or declined. The exam will be conducted by a paramedical examiner and will include a series of health assessments to evaluate your overall health.

• Know the exam requirements: The exam requirements may vary depending on the amount of life insurance applied for and your age. Ask your agent about the specific requirements, as they have charts that outline the necessary exams.
• Have relevant dates: Make sure you have the dates of any previous surgeries, treatments, and tests.
• Provide physician's contact information: Provide the names and contact information of any physicians you have visited in the past five years.
• List medications and dosages: Have a list of all the medications you are currently taking, including dosages. Take your medications as usual on the day of the exam.
• Reschedule if sick: If you are feeling unwell, reschedule the exam. Illness can affect lab results and increase your blood pressure, which may cause you to miss out on the best rate classes.
• Maintain a balanced diet: In the days leading up to the exam, limit your consumption of salty, fatty, and sugary foods.
• Fast: It is recommended to fast for 6-8 hours before the exam, unless your medical condition requires you to eat.
• Avoid alcohol: Refrain from consuming alcohol for at least 48 hours before the exam, as it can impact your blood results.
• Refrain from tobacco use: If you use tobacco products, stop using them for a few hours before the exam, as they can elevate your blood pressure.
• Understand the questions: Make sure you understand the questions asked during the exam and answer accordingly. You don't have to guess or provide more information than what is requested.
• Limit exercise: Avoid strenuous physical activity on the day of the exam, as it can temporarily raise your blood pressure and impact liver test results.
• Schedule a morning appointment: It is recommended to schedule the exam in the morning, as your blood pressure tends to be lower at that time. Additionally, it will be easier to fast if needed.

By following these preparation tips, you can increase your chances of achieving favourable results on your paramedical exam and obtaining the best insurance rates.

What happens after?

Once your paramedical exam is complete, the examiner will send any specimens obtained during the examination to a designated laboratory. The results are then forwarded to the insurance company for assessment. The insurance company will contact you if additional information is required.

You can expect to receive your laboratory test results within 7-14 days. If you are unable to access your results, you can obtain a copy by contacting your insurance agent or insurance company.

After receiving your lab results and the exam forms, the insurance company will submit the results, paperwork, and your application to the underwriter for review. If there are no other requirements, such as additional forms or medical records, the insurance company will usually provide approval within 2-3 weeks of you completing your exam.

You should consider requesting a copy of your lab results from the insurance company. All companies will send them to you free of charge. This is a good way to check on your health and may help you discover any unknown health issues.

It is important to note that if you fail your paramedical exam, you will not be able to retake the test with the same insurance company. In this case, it is usually easier to move to a new company.

Frequently asked questions