Do I need a Medical Exam for Life Insurance?

You probably will. Especially as you get older or your term policy expires and you still want life insurance.

In fact, when you apply for life insurance you’ll probably be required to take a medical exam depending on your age and the amount of coverage you’re seeking.

For example, if you’re under 40 and are applying for less than $100,000 worth of life insurance you probably will not be asked to take a medical exam. But the older you are, the less insurance you can buy without an exam.

How Does the Process Work?

The exam types are as follows:

• A simplified exam involves providing a blood and urine specimen, getting your blood pressure taken, providing height and weight measurements and answering questions about your medical history.

This exam take 15 to 30 minutes and is done by a licensed paramedical or a doctor. It can be completed at your home or other convenient location.

• For high insurance amounts and/or older people, the exam could consist of treadmill EKGs and other more extensive medical examinations.

Reasons for the Exam

The insurance company is checking to see of you have a health condition that could affect your mortality. Tests are taken to detect the presence of the HIV virus, liver or kidney disorders, diabetes, prostrate disorders and the presence of antibodies to hepatitis.

Screening for medications, cocaine or other drugs may also be done.

After the medical underwriter checks the test results, they may decide to take more tests, reject you or accept you as an insured with their company.