Before purchasing a life insurance policy, you may be required to undergo a medical exam. Insurance companies use the results to assess risk and your premium could depend in part on those results.
Knowing what to expect during the exam helps you obtain accurate results and the best rates and coverage. Learn more about Life Insurance.
Do all Life Insurance Companies Require a Medical Exam?
If you apply when you do not have a serious medical condition such as diabetes, cancer, or HIV, you will often be asked to fill out a medical history form rather than undergo a full medical exam. Some online companies offer non-exam policies that require no medical history form or exam, but those policies often include reduced coverage and higher premiums.
Who Performs the Exam?
A medical professional will come to your home, office, or another agreed location to complete the life insurance medical exam. The examiner will contact you to schedule a time and to answer any questions about the exam.
For related medical insurance products, see Stop Loss Insurance - Medical.
How Long Will the Exam Last?
Most life insurance medical exams take 15 to 30 minutes. Expect a few physical checks and to answer a medical history questionnaire about your current health and family health history.
What Happens at the Medical Exam?
- Height and weight
- Blood pressure
- Pulse
- Urine sample
- Blood sample
- ECG/EKG, if needed
How Should you Prepare for the Medical Exam?
Prepare so the results reflect your normal health and habits. Suggested timing guidelines include:
- 24 hours before: Avoid strenuous exercise.
- 12 hours before: Avoid alcohol, high-cholesterol foods (eggs, fried foods, red meat), decongestants, and pain medicines like aspirin, ibuprofen, or acetaminophen.
- 8 hours before: Avoid caffeinated beverages, and fast from all foods if requested.
- 1 hour before: Drink plenty of water to ensure an adequate urine sample.
Your life insurance company may not always require a medical exam, but if they do, knowing what to expect will help you secure better rates and appropriate coverage. Talk to your insurance agent about additional ways to find the right policy for your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will a life insurance medical exam include bloodwork?
Yes, most exams include a blood sample to check cholesterol, glucose, and other routine markers unless you qualify for a no-exam policy.
Can I refuse the medical exam?
You can refuse, but the insurer may decline coverage or offer coverage at higher rates based on the application alone.
How long do results affect my premium?
Medical exam results are used when underwriting your policy and may affect the premium for the duration of the policy or at renewal, depending on the policy type.