Every individually underwritten term life insurance policy requires a medical exam.  The exam is paid for by the life insurance company and is completed by a medical technician or a nurse.

The exam usually consists of a series of health questions as well as a:

• Blood test
• Urine specimen
• Blood pressure reading

In some cases, an electrocardiogram (EKG) or additional tests may be required. The exam can take place in your home or office.

The medical exam is a way for the life insurance underwriter to find out about your medical health.  It will affect how much you pay for your life insurance, so it’s important to prepare.  Preparing will help you avoid unnecessary abnormal exam results, which could affect your life insurance rate.

For the best results, you should:

• Stick to a healthy diet the week prior to your exam.
• Minimize the use of salt and avoid sugary and excess fatty foods.
• Do NOT drink any alcohol products for 72 hours prior to the exam (Alcohol is processed by the liver and can cause liver enzymes to become elevated)

In addition, the day before your exam:

• Stay away from ALL caffeine products.
  • Caffeine can elevate blood pressure.
• Avoid nasal decongestants and pain medication such as aspirin, acetaminophen and ibuprofen (unless directed otherwise by your doctor).
• Do NOT participate in any strenuous exercise – it can cause elevated protein in the urine.
• Fast 8-10 hours prior to the exam-taking place.
  • If your exam is scheduled for 8:00am, begin your fast the night before at
• Get a good night’s sleep.

On the morning of your exam:

• Don’t eat breakfast or use any form of tobacco.
• Have a list of your doctors, including addresses and phone numbers on hand.

You should plan on spending 30 minutes for a full exam. Finally, relax – if you followed these exam tips you have nothing to worry about.