When you first apply for a policy, the agent will ask you some questions about your overall health, such as:

• Your age
• Your height and weight
• Whether you use tobacco, drugs, or alcohol
• Any current or chronic medical issues
• Your family medical history

This initial screening is what helps the insurance company determine if a particular policy is right for you. Based on the results, your application can move forward and the company will schedule an appointment for you with a certified medical professional (a paramed). The exam won’t cost you anything, and you can choose to have the appointment at your home or another convenient location.

Medical exams take about 30 minutes and typically include:

• Height and weight measurements: Your height and weight will need to match the information in your application, so make sure you’re upfront during the initial screening. The paramedic will also check your body mass index (BMI).
• Blood pressure test: This test helps screen for high blood pressure or signs of any related health issues.
• Collecting blood and urine samples: Based on what you shared during the initial questionnaire, the paramed may screen for different individual conditions, from heart disease to drug use.
• Other tests as needed: Depending on your age and health, you may need to take additional tests. Your paramed will go over the specifics ahead of time.

Your paramed will also ask you a few additional questions about your health, any medication you’ve been taking, and which doctors you’ve seen recently. This will help confirm the information you first gave the agent when you applied and uncover any red flags. It’s extremely important to be truthful, since lying on your application can mean being denied coverage or, worse, having your family’s claim denied after you die.

Once you complete the test, the medical professional will submit the information to your life insurance company to complete the underwriting process. After that, you’ll hear back from the insurance company about your eligibility and quote, which can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks.