Whole vs Term

When you apply for life insurance, expect that your potential insurance provider will require you to undergo some medical exam performed by a licensed health professional. The insurance company will order this on your behalf and you will receive a call to schedule the appointment.

Remember that the outcome of the exam will significantly affect your application. So for you to obtain the most favorable results, you must prepare yourself at least a day before. Take into account the following tips below as this will help you lower your risk rating and thus lower the cost of your Term Life Insurance.

1. Limit salt and high cholesterol foods 24 hours prior to the exam.
2. Refrain from drinking alcoholic beverages for at least 24 hours prior to the exam.
3. Limit caffeine and nicotine 24 hours prior to the exam.
4. Smokers: Do not smoke 30 minutes prior to the exam.
5. Fast for 4-8 hours prior to the exam and try to schedule it early in the morning.
6. Drink a glass of water one hour prior to the exam.
7. Get at least 8 hours of sleep the night before the exam.
8. Limit strenuous physical activities 24 hours prior to the exam.
9. Be prepared to provide names and dosages of current medications and a photo ID.
10. Have names, addresses and phone numbers of any doctors or clinics visited in the last 5 years.

As the cost of Term Life insurance hugely depends on your health condition, we suggest you pay attention to these additional guidelines should you have such illness:

Hypertension

* Avoid stimulants (caffeine, alcohol, cigarettes)
* Have the examiner take your blood pressure after you have had a chance to relax: preferably 3 attempts at 10 minute intervals
* Take your usual medications before the life insurance medical exam

Diabetes

* Schedule the life insurance medical exam for 2 ½ hours after a meal (no sweets/sugars after the meal)
* Empty bladder right after eating