You've decided to protect your family with life insurance. You found a great quote. But then you hear the words: "We just need to schedule a brief medical exam."
For many, this is the most stressful part of the process. Will it hurt? Will they find something wrong? Will it raise my rates? The reality is that the paramedical exam is a routine, simple checkup that typically takes less than 30 minutes. Being prepared can help you get the best possible health rating—and the lowest price.
Why Do They Require an Exam?
Insurance is a game of risk. The insurer is betting that you will live a long, healthy life. To make that bet, they need to verify your health status. The exam confirms the information you provided on your application (like your weight and smoking status) and checks for undisclosed conditions like high blood pressure or diabetes.
Note: "No-exam" policies exist, but they are generally more expensive because the insurer is taking on more blind risk.
What Happens During the Exam?
A licensed medical professional (paramedical examiner) will come to your home or office. It is free for you. The exam consists of two parts:
1. The Interview
They will verify your medical history. Expect questions about:
- Prescription medications you take.
- Surgeries or hospitalizations.
- Family history of heart disease or cancer.
- Tobacco, alcohol, and drug use.
- Lifestyle (exercise, dangerous hobbies).
2. The Physical Checks
- Height and Weight: To calculate your BMI.
- Blood Pressure: High readings can trigger higher rates.
- Pulse: To check heart rate and regularity.
- Blood Sample: Drawn from your arm to test for cholesterol, glucose (diabetes), liver/kidney function, and HIV.
- Urine Sample: To test for protein, sugar, nicotine, and recreational drugs.
How to "Ace" Your Exam
While you can't change your genetics or medical history overnight, you can take steps in the 24-48 hours before the exam to ensure your results are accurate and favorable.
- Fast: Do not eat for 8-12 hours before the appointment. Food can spike your blood sugar and triglyceride levels. Schedule the exam for the morning so you can just sleep through the fast.
- Hydrate: Drink plenty of water. It makes the blood draw easier and flushes your system for the urine test.
- Avoid Caffeine: No coffee or energy drinks morning-of. They can spike your blood pressure and pulse.
- Skip the Gym: Avoid strenuous exercise for 24 hours. Heavy lifting can temporarily raise protein levels in your urine.
- Avoid Salt and Alcohol: Both can cause water retention and elevate blood pressure. Avoid them for at least 24 hours.
- Dress Comfortably: Wear short sleeves for the blood pressure cuff and blood draw.
What If I "Fail"?
You can't really "fail" the exam, but poor results can lead to a higher premium (Table Rating) or a decline.
- If you are declined: Ask why. It might be a solvable issue. You can often apply with a different carrier that specializes in "high-risk" cases.
- If you smoke: Be honest. They test for cotinine (a nicotine byproduct). If you say you don't smoke and the test says you do, you will likely be declined for fraud.
Exam Day Checklist
- Schedule for AM: Best for fasting and blood pressure.
- Gather info: Have your doctor's contact info and a list of meds ready.
- Drink water: A glass of water 1 hour prior is perfect.
- Relax: Nervousness raises blood pressure. Sit quietly for 5 minutes before the examiner starts.
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