Make Yourself Look Good for
Your Medical "Snap Shot"

 

Insurance companies request medical examinations to provide them with a snapshot of your current health condition. This information is then used to determine your insurability. Abnormal findings can create problems in obtaining this coverage and possibly with future applications as well. It is in everybody’s best interest that this snapshot be as accurate as possible eliminating as many false abnormalities as possible.

 

Some abnormal exam findings are indicative of a problem known or unknown to you. These are the results the insurance company looks for as they represent a more accurate picture of your current insurability. Unfortunately there are also “false positive” results that cloud the picture making it harder for the underwriter to fairly assess your application. You can help avoid these false positive results with a few tips. Just as you would spruce yourself up for a family photo, these tips can help you make sure that your picture is the best possible picture for the life insurance company.

 

Depending on your age and the amount of life insurance you applied for, a medical exam may not be required at all.

 

Medical Underwriting Tips
Get a good night's rest before the exam
Do not consume any form of alcohol for at least 8 hours before the exam
Do not eat for at least 2 hours before the exam
Do not consume any form of caffeine, food or beverage (except water), for at least 2 hours before the exam
For smokers: do not smoke for at least 1 hour before the exam
If you are taking prescription medication, have it ready for reference at the exam
If you are taking over-the-counter medication, make sure you tell your insurance advisor and the examiner
Drink 8 ounces of water 1 hour before the exam
Schedule the exam on a day where you will have the least amount of stress, like a morning when you don't have to work. If you are feeling stressed on the day of the exam, call to reschedule.