So you’d like to purchase life insurance, but the company says you need to have a life insurance exam. Don’t worry! A term life insurance health exam is similar to a regular physical, and you don’t have to be in perfect health to get an affordable policy.

Taking the Life Insurance Exam

For a life insurance exam, a nurse or paramedical is sent by the insurance company to conduct the life insurance exam, usually to your home or office. There are four basic parts to the life insurance exam:

• Medical history: You’ll need to provide a detailed medical history, so you may want to request your medical records from your doctor.
• Vitals: Your height, weight, blood pressure and pulse will be checked.
• Blood Sample: A simple finger-prick may be all that's necessary. If you are applying for a large amount of life insurance, you may be asked to submit a full blood profile.
• Urine Sample: A sample of your urine used to check for certain medical conditions and illegal drug use.

Life insurance exams vary by company. EKGs, treadmill tests or other assessments may be required for older or high policy value applicants. People younger than 40 who are applying for less than $100,000 of coverage may only need a few simple lab tests in place of the life insurance exam.

What’s the Point of the Life Insurance Exam?

There is one simple reason for the life insurance exam: the insurer wants to know if you have any condition that could shorten your life. The blood test is used to test for immune disorders, diabetes, liver or kidney disorder, and a host of other conditions, and the urine sample may be screened for medications or illicit drugs.

After the Life Insurance Exam

The results of your life insurance exam are sent directly to the insurance company, where an underwriter will examine the results and determine your insurance rating. This information will help determine your premium. You can request a copy of the results.

A life insurance exam may seem scary, but you don't have to be in perfect physical health to qualify for an affordable life insurance policy. Even if you are judged to be chronically or seriously ill, there is still the possibility of being offered a policy at a higher premium. If questions about your health remain, you may be requested to provide more information or undergo further life insurance exams.

Life Insurance Exam Tips

• Get a good night's rest the night before the life insurance exam.
• Stimulants such as caffeine, cigarettes, coffee, or herbal supplements should be limited.
• Schedule a morning appointment. Your body may be worn out after a long, stressful day.
• Avoid strenuous work or exercise at least 24 hours prior to the exam.
• Keep yourself healthy! Eat a proper diet, exercise, visit a doctor regularly and avoid harmful habits like smoking and alcohol consumption.

Shopping for life insurance by no means a fun experience, and taking a life insurance exam can make people nervous, but having the peace of mind that your loved ones will always be protected is well worth it. If you're interested in investing in a life insurance policy, you can shop and compare insurance quotes for free at an online insurance comparison marketplace like InsWeb.com.