What is a medical exam for life insurance?

So what’s the deal with medical exams? Life insurance companies want to assess (your) risk. That’s the focus of the underwriting process. Some insurers, like Wysh, use insurtech (insurance tech) to digitally figure out your level of risk based on the medical information you provide.

Others need that exam. How does a medical exam affect life insurance rates? Companies use that medical information to determine your risk. That, in turn, helps determine your premiums. The better your health, the lower your premiums could be. And trust, these exams can be thorough.

What do life insurance medical exams test for?

If you’re worried about losing a day to the doctor’s office, don’t be. Most exams tend to be straightforward and quick. It can take 15 to 45 minutes, depending on what tests are requested. 

Before the tests, you’ll probably answer some questions. Be prepared to answer about any medications, conditions, dates of diagnosis, previous doctors, among others. 

At the exam itself, you can expect to have your height, weight, and blood pressure recorded. Some companies may ask that you also provide urine and blood samples. That way they can screen for things like cholesterol, blood sugar levels, as well as nicotine and drug use.

Preparing for a medical exam

The results of your exam will help determine your premiums or if the company can insure you. So no pressure. If you want to ace the exam for life insurance, consider these tips before you visit the doctor.

Prior to the exam, you might want to avoid things like red meat, high-cholesterol foods, alcohol and any strenuous activities. These can raise your blood pressure levels (which we don’t want). It might also help to stay hydrated, so more water than coffee.

What if I fail the life insurance medical exam?

Let’s say your results weren’t what you were looking for. It’s not the end of the world. Just ‘cause one company doesn’t approve you for coverage, doesn’t mean another automatically won’t. It’s important to shop around. Another company may approve you at a lower health class rating. 

Alternatively, it may be a sign to strengthen those healthy habits. Developing healthier habits could turn your information around. That, in turn, could help you out if you decide to reapply for coverage once the reapplication window opens. 

What is no medical exam life insurance?

As stated above, some companies don’t require medical exams to determine risk. These companies, like Wysh, rely on digital underwriting and the medical information you provide. If you’re in excellent health then digital insurers may be great for you since you can skip the exam.

If you think you’ve got excellent health, and are looking for first-class financial protection, apply for a Wysh policy. The application is quick, easy and there’s no medical exam required, just a few health questions. You could even be approved in the same time it took for you to read this article. 

TL;DR

What is a medical exam for life insurance?

• Some life insurance companies request medical exams to get more in-depth information about your health status. 
• This exam helps the company determine your risk and potential premiums.

How long does a medical exam take?

• Often takes anywhere between 15 and 45 minutes. Not long at all.