Medical Exam for Life Insurance
When the time comes that you have finally decided on which type of life insurance policy is the right one for you, the next step would be getting a medical exam. Your insurance company will set a day for you to have your exam and would take at least half an hour depending on the tests required. In this article, you will find what is typically expected in these exams and what you can do to be ready when the day comes.
Prepare yourself before the exam. You can ready yourself a day or two or even a week before the scheduled date. Here are some guidelines to help you:
1. Schedule the medical exam in the morning when your body is less stressed.
2. Fast for at least 8 hours before if possible to get accurate results. If you can go for 12 hours, the better for you.
3. Avoid salty, high cholesterol and high fat food at least 24 hours before the exam.
4. Do not undergo strenuous workout or exercise the day before the exam.
5. Avoid caffeine laced drinks like coffee, tea and soda at least a few hours before.
6. Stay off alcohol for at least 24 hours before your exam.
7. Avoid smoking and chewing tobacco at least an hour before the medical exam.
8. When you get sick on the day of the exam, cancel it. Minor infections can distort your exam results.
What to expect during medical exam day:
1. The examiner will first ask you about your medical history. Be ready with information like your doctor’s name, hospitals where you have been treated, surgeries you had and even medications you are taking.
2. You will also be questioned about your lifestyle. This would include habits like smoking, drinking, exercise and drug use.
3. They will measure your height, weight, blood pressure and pulse.
4. Blood work and urine tests.
5. Some insurance companies also require EKG’s or stress test especially if you are purchasing a large life insurance policy.
After taking the medical exam, the insurance company will review the results and calculate your premium. Remember that you are entitled to get a copy of the result so that you can double check it with your own doctor.
