life insurance examination

If you're shopping for coverage, you'll probably be subjected to health tests. Here's exactly what insurers are looking for and how they'll find it.

There's a good chance you will need to undergo a medical exam if you are buying life insurance, whether it's term or whole life. Typically, insurance medical exams are done by paramedicals, who are licensed health professionals. Paramedicals are often independent contractors hired by the insurance company who come to your home.

There are medical questions on Part I (some insurers call it Part A) of a life insurance application that are usually completed by your agent in your presence, or online by you. Part II (or Part B) is the medical form that is completed by a paramedical or a physician.

After receiving your application for life insurance, your agent or life insurer will call one of several paramedical services that specialize in mobile exams. They'll give the paramedical service information on you, the amount of insurance you're applying for, and the name of the insurance company. Most paramedical professionals stay current on insurers' underwriting requirements.

What's involved in the exam

Nearly all exams can take place at your home or office, since many paramedicals carry their own supplies and have centrifuges for blood sampling. Although the insurer might order what is called an attending physician's statement (APS) from your doctor, you cannot have the life insurance medical exam done by your own physician.

A paramedical professional will call you to schedule your appointment. If you can't schedule an appointment, you'll usually have the option of going to a clinic specified by the insurer. The exam isn't optional -- you must have it or your application won't be processed. The insurance company pays the paramedical service or examining physician directly, so you're not financially responsible for the exam or any lab work.

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