Life Insurance Exams: What Medical Tests Are Required?

Life insurance medical exams are a routine part of applying for life insurance. The exam is similar to an annual physical, and the results help the insurer determine how much you'll pay for your policy. The insurer will send an examiner to your home or workplace to measure your height, weight, pulse, and blood pressure, and take a blood and urine sample. The results of the exam will confirm your health status and help the insurer evaluate your overall risk. The insurer will use this information to set the price of your insurance. If the insurer feels confident that you'll outlive the policy, your insurance will be cheaper. If you're more likely to die while the policy is active, your insurance will be more expensive.

Height and weight measurements

The height and weight measurements are usually taken by a licensed healthcare professional or a paramedical professional during the physical examination. They will use a stadiometer or a height rod to measure your height and a weighing scale to measure your weight. These measurements are then recorded and used to calculate your BMI.

It is important to note that height and weight guidelines may differ among insurance companies, and they are just one factor among many that is considered when determining your rate class. Other factors include your age, gender, medical history, lifestyle habits, and the results of any additional tests or screenings.

While height and weight measurements are important, they should not be the sole determining factor in assessing your overall health. For example, a person with a high BMI may be very healthy due to regular exercise and a nutritious diet. Conversely, a person with a low BMI may be unhealthy due to poor lifestyle choices or underlying medical conditions. Therefore, insurance companies consider a combination of factors to make informed decisions about your health status and the associated risks.

Overall, height and weight measurements are a standard component of the life insurance medical exam, and they play a role in helping insurance companies assess your health, determine your rate class, and tailor coverage to your specific needs and circumstances.

Blood pressure

There are several things you can do to prepare for a blood pressure test as part of a life insurance medical exam. It is recommended that you get a good night's sleep the day before your exam, as this can help lower your heart rate and blood pressure. You should also wear lightweight clothing, as this won't add extra weight and can help you feel more comfortable during the exam.

In the days leading up to the exam, it is advisable to avoid salty foods and foods high in cholesterol, as these can cause higher blood pressure. You should also refrain from drinking alcohol and caffeine, and avoid intense exercise, for at least 12 hours before the exam. Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water is also recommended, as this can help keep your blood pressure in check.

Blood and urine tests

Blood Tests

Blood tests can provide specific information about your health and verify what you have stated in your application. For example, if you stated that you are not a smoker, but your blood test indicates the presence of nicotine, this may raise a red flag for the company.

Insurance companies may use blood tests to look for the following:

• HIV or AIDS: If you are receiving proper care for your HIV, you may not be denied coverage, but you may pay a higher premium.
• STDs: Having a sexually transmitted disease does not mean you will be unable to get a policy. However, it is recommended to include this information on your application so that the company is aware before the blood test.
• Cholesterol: Your insurer is usually interested in your total cholesterol level and the ratio of total cholesterol to HDL cholesterol. Ultimately, your cholesterol level can impact your risk group and policy premium.
• Hemoglobin A1C and glucose levels: Hemoglobin measures your long-term blood sugar levels. If it is elevated above 5.7 percent, you could be at risk of diabetes. Glucose measures blood sugar levels at the time of testing. An optimal range prior to eating is 80-130 mg per decilitre.
• Kidney disease: As with all chronic conditions, having kidney disease may result in a higher chance of being turned down for a policy, and you will probably pay more for coverage.
• Diabetes: Diabetes usually makes it more difficult to acquire life insurance. However, if your diabetes is actively managed, you may still qualify for coverage.
• Drugs: The presence of illegal substances in your blood will likely cause your insurer to deny your application, especially if it was not disclosed. If you are taking prescribed medication, it is recommended to indicate it on your application so that the insurer is aware.
• Nicotine: Any sign of nicotine or cotinine in your system will likely lead to higher rates. If you are using a nicotine patch, vape, or gum, you may want to 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 life insurance premium and risk class.
• Enzyme levels: Checking your enzyme levels can show if there is inflammation around your organs, which could include some cardiac or liver conditions. The results may prevent you from being approved or alter your final life insurance risk group and rate.

Urine Tests

Urine tests are used to check for illegal drug and nicotine use, liver and kidney problems, and other chronic health conditions. The results are used to evaluate your health profile during underwriting and confirm your application information, which in turn determines your premium rates.

Urine tests can be used to uncover the following:

• Drug use: If you are currently using hard drugs or painkillers that have not been prescribed, you will be ineligible for coverage. A life insurance urine test can detect drugs such as amphetamines/methamphetamines, cocaine, opiates, phencyclidine (PCP), barbiturates, benzodiazepines, and methadone.
• Nicotine: Nicotine and cotinine, an alkaloid found in tobacco, can be detected by a urine test for several days. Smokers pay two to three times more than non-smoker premiums.
• Health issues: By analysing a urine sample, companies can determine a wide variety of health risks, such as kidney infection, liver problems, or diabetes.
• Diuretics: Urine tests can detect diuretics, which may be a sign of blood pressure medication.

Drug use

The presence of drugs in your system can have a significant impact on your life insurance application. If you test positive for illegal drugs, your application may be denied outright. Even if you are offered coverage, you will likely face higher premiums due to being considered a higher risk.

It is important to note that honesty is crucial when it comes to disclosing drug use. Failing to disclose past or current drug use may be considered insurance fraud, which can have serious consequences. Additionally, certain substances can remain detectable in your system for weeks or even months after use, so it is not enough to simply stop using drugs temporarily before the test.

Life insurance companies are not only interested in illegal drug use but also the use of prescription medications. While having a valid prescription may not automatically disqualify you, it could still impact your application. Insurers will consider the potential for addiction and the long-term health risks associated with certain prescription drugs. If your prescription indicates that you have a serious health issue, it could increase the risk factor and result in higher premiums.

In summary, drug use is a critical factor in life insurance exams, and honesty about your drug use is essential to avoid issues such as insurance fraud. The presence of drugs in your system can affect your application and premiums, and it is important to understand that both illegal and prescription drugs are subject to testing.

Medical history

• Application Process: When applying for life insurance, you'll typically be required to fill out an extensive application form. This form will include questions about your personal medical history, past and current prescriptions, and your family's medical history (usually focusing on parents and siblings). Be prepared to provide detailed information about any medical conditions, dates of diagnoses, treatments, and the contact information of treating physicians.
• Underwriting Process: Insurers use a process called underwriting to determine the risk associated with insuring you. Your medical history plays a significant role in this process. Underwriters will review your application, medical records, prescription history, and information from databases like the Medical Information Bureau (MIB) to assess your health status comprehensively.
• Impact on Premiums: Your medical history can significantly influence the premiums you'll pay for life insurance. Insurers use your medical information to evaluate your life expectancy and the likelihood of developing chronic health conditions. If your medical history indicates higher risk, you may be offered a policy with higher premiums.
• Verbal Questionnaire: During the life insurance medical exam, you'll undergo a verbal questionnaire where an examiner will ask you additional questions about your health, lifestyle, and social habits. They may also inquire about your current prescriptions and confirm the information provided in your application.
• Family Medical History: Information about your family's medical history is crucial, as it helps insurers identify potential genetic risk factors. Be prepared to disclose any significant illnesses or conditions that run in your family, especially if they are hereditary or have impacted the longevity of your family members.
• Honesty and Accuracy: It is of utmost importance to be completely honest and accurate when disclosing your medical history. Inconsistencies or omissions can lead to delays, increased premiums, or even denial of coverage. Insurers have the right to verify your medical information through various sources, and they may cancel your policy if they discover false or misleading information.

Frequently asked questions