What Life Insurance Screening Tests For
Life insurance screening tests for health markers, risky behaviors, and family medical history to determine your risk class and premium. The process combines a paramedical exam, a background check, and sometimes additional records to build a profile insurers use to price coverage.
More from this site
Keep reading the latest coverage
Core Elements of the Screening
Most applications move through three main checks: a medical exam, a prescription database review, and a motor vehicle or criminal background report. Insurers may also pull your medical history from electronic health records or request attending physician statements for large policies.
Medical Exam
A paramedical professional typically measures height, weight, blood pressure, and pulse. The exam usually includes blood and urine samples to screen for conditions such as diabetes, high cholesterol, kidney function issues, and liver enzyme abnormalities. Tobacco use is often detectable through cotinine testing in blood or urine.
Background and Prescription History
Insurers check prescription drug databases to confirm medications and identify undisclosed health conditions. Background reports may reveal prior arrests, DUI convictions, or other flags that affect underwriting, especially for higher face amounts.
Family History and Lifestyle Questions
Underwriters ask about parents and siblings, focusing on causes and ages of death. They also ask about risky hobbies such as skydiving, scuba diving, or aviation, and about travel to regions with health or security concerns.
What the Results Influence
Screening results directly shape your risk classification, which can range from preferred plus to standard or rated. A clean exam and stable health history usually lead to lower premiums; unexpected findings can trigger higher pricing or, in some cases, a decline.
How to Prepare
- Fast for 8 to 12 hours before the exam if instructed.
- Stay hydrated and avoid alcohol for 24 to 48 hours beforehand.
- Bring a list of current medications and dosages.
- Get a good night's sleep and avoid strenuous exercise the morning of the exam.