MONDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 2013
The life insurance exam is a simple process which helps to establish your risk factors, and therefore, your insurance rates. A life insurance exam is not a pass or fail test. In fact, it is very similar to a routine physical. If you are younger than 40 years of age and are applying for less than $100,000 of life insurance coverage, a few simple lab studies may take the place of a life insurance exam.
 Many insurance companies require a life insurance exam to fulfill their own requirements or obtaining any and all information about your health prior to providing you with a policy. The insurance company wants to know if you have any condition that could shorten your life.
You do not have to be in perfect physical health to pass a life insurance exam, and many times, you may find that you qualify for a much more affordable life insurance policy than you may realize.
Test Prep:
It is always important to keep yourself healthy on a regular basis. You cannot cram for a life insurance exam by exercising and eating right for two days before. Maintain a proper diet, a healthy weight, and avoid harmful habits like smoking and alcohol consumption. Schedule your appointment in the morning so your body is fresh and rejuvenated. Avoid an appointment after a long day at work.
The night before your life insurance exam, get plenty of sleep so you wake rested. Avoid the use of caffeine, cigarettes, coffee, or herbal supplements the morning of. If possible, avoid strenuous work, stressful situations, or exercise for at least 24 hours prior to the exam. Prepare ahead of time to have all necessary medical history documents including names of doctors, dates of office visits, and diagnoses where necessary.
The Process:
Oftentimes, a life insurance exam is done at your convenience by an independent medical professional such as a nurse or paramedical. In some circumstances, this professional may be able to come to your home or office. They will check your height, weight, blood pressure, and pulse. Next, you will be likely asked to provide a blood sample.
Generally, this can be done with a simple finger-prick. The blood test is used to test for immune disorders, diabetes, liver or kidney disorder, and a host of other conditions. The last test is a urine sample to screen for certain medications or illicit drugs.
While this provides a standard outline for most exams, the process may vary by company and the type of policy you are applying for. For older or high policy value applicants, EKGs, treadmill tests, or other assessments may be required.
Life insurance exam results are sent directly to the insurance company, where an underwriter will examine the findings and determine your insurance rating. This information will help determine your premium. If you requested a copy of the results, you will be provided with a copy of your lab results.
By Matt Reynolds - Google+
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