How to Prepare for a Life Insurance Medical Exam

A medical exam is often part of the life insurance process. Knowing what to expect can help things go smoothly and keep your application moving.

Why a Medical Exam Is Sometimes Required 

The premium you pay for your life insurance policy is based on a variety of factors, including your age, hobbies, medical background and overall health. The initial stages of a life insurance application include a questionnaire where you will be asked to provide information about your health history. That may prompt a more in-depth medical exam to ensure insurers have a good understanding of your overall health, which impacts eligibility and pricing decisions.

Not everyone will need a medical exam. For example, at Farm Bureau, accelerated underwriting is available to many applicants, which eliminates the need for a medical exam. The decision about whether an exam is needed or not is likely based on potential risk factors that come up in the interview – such as a chronic disease – or something about the policy – such as a high death benefit. 

What Happens During a Life Insurance Medical Exam?

 During a medical exam, a licensed healthcare professional will take basic measurements, like height, weight and blood pressure. You will likely be asked some basic health and lifestyle questions. You may be asked for blood or urine samples so that the standard tests can be done, much like an annual checkup at your primary care provider. 

Life insurance medical exams are looking for conditions that may impact your life expectancy, such as cardiovascular issues, tobacco use or indications of chronic conditions. 

How to Prepare Before Your Exam & What Information You’ll Be Asked to Provide

A medical exam isn’t one you can really prepare for, but there are some actions you can take to ensure the exam results reflect the healthiest version of you.

In the 24 hours before the exam, limit your intake of salt and high-cholesterol foods. Avoid alcohol and drink plenty of water. Try to get a good night’s sleep the night before the exam. Avoid strenuous exercise beginning approximately 12 hours before the exam, as these activities can temporarily spike your blood pressure or pulse and skew the results. 

You may be provided with instructions to follow about eating or taking medication before the exam, and you may be asked to confirm information about your medical history and prescription medications. It may be helpful to have dosage information on-hand. 

When an Exam May Not Be Needed

In many situations, a medical exam may not be needed. This is dependent on the type of policy you’ve chosen, as well as your age and health. Eligibility and coverage amounts may vary for policies available without medical exams because without your health information, the insurer can’t confirm that they have priced the policy in accordance with your personal situation.  

Prepare With Confidence

Whether a medical exam is required or not, a Farm Bureau agent can help you understand your life insurance options and guide you through the application process.