Life Insurance Physicals: What Examiners Check And Why

Life insurance rates are based on a number of factors that determine the amount of financial risk the life insurance company takes when it approves a policy. To assess this risk, insurance companies often require applicants to undergo a medical exam. This exam typically consists of two parts: a questionnaire and a basic physical exam. The physical exam includes recording an applicant's weight, height, body mass index (BMI), and vitals, including pulse and blood pressure. Depending on the applicant's circumstances and the insurer's requirements, additional tests may be required, such as an electrocardiogram (EKG), treadmill stress test, or cognitive ability test. The results of the medical exam will impact the cost of the life insurance policy, with applicants in good health typically qualifying for lower premiums.

Blood pressure, height, weight, pulse and vitals

The life insurance physical exam is a routine part of most insurance applications. It is an important way for insurance companies to assess an applicant's health and determine their insurability and the cost of premiums. The physical exam is usually carried out by a healthcare professional and is much like a regular yearly checkup.

The physical exam will include taking measurements of your height and weight, as well as checking your vital signs, including your blood pressure and pulse.

Blood Pressure

High blood pressure is a common condition that can lead to other serious health issues such as heart disease, strokes, and kidney problems. It is, therefore, an important factor in determining the cost of life insurance premiums. Insurers will want to see that the condition is under control and that the applicant is taking steps to manage it through regular check-ups, medication, and lifestyle changes.

Height and Weight

An applicant's height and weight are measured during the physical exam. These measurements, along with other factors such as blood pressure, can be used to calculate the applicant's body mass index (BMI). An applicant's weight and height can also influence their insurance premiums, particularly if they are overweight, as this is considered a risk factor.

Pulse

The physical exam will also include taking an applicant's pulse to check their heart rate. This is another vital sign that can indicate the overall health of the applicant.

Vitals

In addition to blood pressure, height, weight, and pulse, the physical exam may also include other vital health measurements such as body temperature and respiratory rate. These measurements provide a snapshot of the applicant's overall health and help insurers assess their risk profile.

Preparation

There is not much that can be done to significantly improve one's health in the short term before a life insurance physical exam. However, it is recommended to take care of oneself in the week leading up to the exam by eating healthily, drinking more water, and getting plenty of sleep.

Blood and urine samples

The lab tests will analyze various health markers to assess your overall health and identify any potential medical risks. Here are some of the common factors that are typically checked through blood and urine samples:

• Cholesterol levels: Insurers are interested in your total cholesterol level and the ratio of total cholesterol to HDL cholesterol. High cholesterol can lead to heart disease and may impact your risk group and policy premium.
• Hemoglobin A1C and glucose levels: Hemoglobin measures your long-term blood sugar levels, while glucose measures blood sugar at the time of testing. Elevated levels may indicate a risk of diabetes.
• Kidney disease: Testing for kidney function is important as chronic conditions can impact your insurability and policy costs.
• Diabetes: Both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes can affect your approval and risk rating. Well-managed diabetes may still qualify for coverage.
• HIV/AIDS: A positive HIV test may not automatically disqualify you, but it can result in higher premiums.
• Tobacco and nicotine use: Any sign of nicotine or cotinine in your system will likely lead to higher rates.
• Recreational and illegal drug use: Testing for drugs like marijuana, cocaine, or methamphetamines helps insurers gauge risk. Illegal drug use may lead to disqualification, while marijuana use may have more flexibility depending on the insurer.
• Prescription drugs: Insurers check for prescribed drugs to verify treatments and ensure you have listed all medications accurately.
• STDs: Sexually transmitted diseases may affect your rates in some circumstances but usually will not result in denial of coverage.
• Liver disease: Testing for liver enzymes and conditions like hepatitis helps assess risk. Advanced liver damage may disqualify you from obtaining a policy.

Overall, the blood and urine samples taken during the life insurance physical exam provide valuable information for insurers to determine your insurability, risk classification, and premium costs.

Health questionnaire

A life insurance medical exam is usually divided into two parts: a health questionnaire and a physical exam. The questionnaire is designed to give the life insurance company an idea of your health and the level of financial risk they would be taking on by insuring you.

The health questionnaire will cover your medical history, including current and past diagnoses, recent doctor's visits, and your family medical history. You will also be asked about your lifestyle habits, such as smoking, alcohol consumption, and exercise. Be prepared to provide the names and contact information of doctors you have seen in recent years, as well as a list of prescriptions, including dosage amounts. It is important to be honest and provide accurate information during this part of the process.

The health questionnaire is a crucial step in the life insurance application process, helping insurance providers assess your health status, identify potential risks, and determine your insurance risk class. This, in turn, influences the cost of your life insurance policy.

Cognitive and mobility testing

Life insurance medical exams are a routine part of most insurance applications. They are used to assess an applicant's overall health and evaluate potential risks associated with providing coverage. The process is called medical underwriting. The results of the medical exam will impact the cost of the policy and the applicant's insurability.

Cognitive Testing

Cognitive testing is often required for applicants aged 70 and above. It assesses problems with attention, memory, learning, decision-making, and problem-solving. Intellectual decline is prevalent at older ages, but it is not a normal part of the aging process. Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) is often an indication of preclinical dementia and progresses to dementia at a rate of about 12-15% per year. Testing can detect MCI before it is clinically apparent.

Cognitive tests include:

• Clock draw test: The examiner asks the applicant to draw a clock face and show the time of 10 minutes past 11. This test evaluates the applicant's ability to follow directions and their brain function, planning, and decision-making.
• Delayed word recall: The applicant is given a list of 10 words and asked to use each in a sentence. After 5-10 minutes, they are asked to recall as many words as possible. Typically, they need to recall at least 6 words to pass.

Mobility Testing

Mobility testing is also often required for applicants aged 70 and above. It assesses the applicant's ability to perform the normal requirements of daily living and their physical capabilities. This may include tests of balance, gait, and strength.

It is important to note that the specific tests performed during the life insurance physical may vary depending on the insurer, the applicant's age, and the amount of coverage applied for.

HIV, kidney issues, drug use

When applying for life insurance, individuals are typically required to undergo a medical examination to assess their health and determine their insurability. This process helps insurance providers evaluate the financial risk associated with providing coverage and setting premium rates. While the specific tests and requirements may vary, several standard procedures are typically included in a life insurance physical.

For individuals with HIV, kidney issues, or a history of drug use, the life insurance application process may be more complex and detailed. Here is some information regarding what to expect in each case:

HIV:

People living with HIV can now access life insurance coverage, thanks to medical advancements. Insurance companies view HIV similarly to other chronic diseases, and some major insurers offer both term life and whole life insurance options for HIV-positive individuals. To qualify for coverage, applicants must meet specific criteria, including being on highly active antiretroviral therapy, demonstrating favourable lab results, and having an undetectable HIV viral load. The availability and cost of life insurance for people with HIV have improved, but it is still important to shop around and understand the underwriting process.

Kidney Issues:

Chronic kidney disease can impact the cost of life insurance, and insurance providers will consider an individual's kidney health when determining eligibility and premium rates. People with kidney disease may be eligible for Medicare Advantage plans, which often offer additional benefits such as prescription drug coverage. It is important to review insurance options and choose a plan that meets specific needs, as coverage may change as the disease progresses.

Drug Use:

Life insurance is available for individuals with a history of drug use, but the underwriting process may be more complex and in-depth. Insurance providers will consider the extent and type of drug use, as well as the individual's current health and lifestyle. Factors such as compliance with medical treatment, attendance at doctor's appointments, and a stable medical condition can increase the chances of approval. Drug tests are typically conducted as part of the medical examination, and insurance companies may deny coverage if current drug use is detected. The cost of life insurance may be higher for individuals with a history of drug use, and certain types of policies, such as whole life or term life insurance, may be recommended.

Frequently asked questions