Life insurance is a critical investment for anyone who wants to protect their loved ones against the uncertainty of the future.

However, the process of purchasing life insurance can be cumbersome, and one of the most significant hurdles for many people is the medical exam. While it can be nerve-wracking to undergo a medical exam, it is an essential step in the underwriting process. Here’s what you need to know about life insurance medical exams before you purchase a policy.

Why Life Insurance Companies Require Medical Exams

The purpose of a life insurance medical exam is to determine your overall health and risk profile.

Life insurance companies use this information to determine how much risk they are assuming by insuring you and to determine how much to charge for your policy. Essentially, a life insurance medical exam is a screening tool used by insurers to identify high-risk individuals who may be more likely to die or experience severe health issues during the term of their policy.

What to Expect During a Life Insurance Medical Exam

During a life insurance medical exam, an underwriter or medical professional hired by the insurance company will perform several tests to measure your overall health and risk profile.

These tests may include a physical exam, blood and urine samples, and a review of your medical history. The test is quick and non-invasive and usually takes anywhere from 30 minutes to one hour to complete.

Physical Exam

The physical exam is different from a routine check-up with your primary care physician. The examiner will measure your height and weight, record your pulse and blood pressure, and listen to your heart and lungs.

They may also check your abdomen for any abnormalities and ask you to perform simple physical tasks to test your motor skills and reflexes.

Blood and Urine Samples

The insurance company will test your blood and urine for various markers and abnormalities. The tests check for conditions such as diabetes, liver or kidney disease, HIV, and high cholesterol.

You will not receive or find out the results of the tests performed unless they have an impact on your ability to secure coverage or your premium rate.

Review of Medical History

You will be asked to provide an extensive medical history as part of the life insurance application process. The examiner will review your medical history to identify any preexisting conditions or potential red flags that could impact your coverage.

The insurer may also request additional medical records from your physician to verify information you provide.

Preparing for Your Medical Exam

While a life insurance medical exam may seem daunting, there are steps you can take to prepare yourself for the exam to ensure the process goes smoothly. Here are some tips:.

Fast Before Your Exam

Many of the tests performed during the exam require that you fast for at least 12 hours before the exam. That means no food, drink (except water), or medications during this time.

Be sure to review the specific fasting requirements with your insurance agent or the examiner before the appointment.

Avoid Strenuous Exercise

Avoid strenuous exercise for at least 24 hours before your exam. High-intensity exercise can impact blood pressure and pulse rate, which can affect the results of the physical exam. Take it easy for the 24 hours leading up to your appointment.

Get a Good Night’s Sleep

Ensure you get a good night’s sleep before the exam. Being well-rested ensures your body is in its best condition for the test, and it helps you remain relaxed during the exam.

Being nervous or anxious can affect the accuracy of the results; try to stay focused and remain calm.

Stay Hydrated

Drink plenty of water before your exam. Being well-hydrated ensures that your veins are easy to locate, which can help speed up the process of taking blood samples. Staying hydrated can also ensure accurate test results.

Summary

A life insurance medical exam may seem overwhelming, but it is a necessary part of the application process. Understanding the purpose of the exam and what to expect can help alleviate any anxiety or unease leading up to the appointment.

Take care of yourself in the days leading up to the exam, and be sure to follow all instructions provided by your insurance agent or examiner. By doing so, you can increase the likelihood of a successful exam and secure the coverage you need to protect yourself and your loved ones.