Preparing for your Life Insurance Exam

The paramed insurance exam is one of the most important aspects of applying for life insurance coverage.

Typically, a paramed exam is a brief, 20- to 30-minute procedure consisting of a review of your medical history as well as height and weight, blood pressure and pulse measurements. In addition, urine and blood specimens are collected using a sterile, sealed and non-reusable laboratory kit.

Occasionally, medical exams, treadmill or non-stress EKG’s or other services may also be performed by a paramedic examiner as required.

Please note that blood and pulse levels as well as cholesterol readings can be elevated by stress, diet, alcohol, caffeine and tobacco. To obtain the best possible results during your paramed exam, please review the following suggestions.

To minimize any possible negative effects:

• Schedule your exam at a time when you are not rushed to minimize elevated blood pressure readings. Also, try to get a good night sleep the night before the examination so that you are completely rested.

• If at all possible, you should fast for at least eight hours prior to the examination unless otherwise instructed.

• Do not smoke, chew tobacco or drink coffee, tea or caffeinated soft drinks for at least eight to 12 hours prior to your examination.

• Try to abstain from alcoholic beverages for at least 24 hours prior to the exam. 

• Do not engage in strenuous exercise or physical activities for 24 hours prior to your examination. Physical exertion can temporarily elevate lab readings.

• Limit salt intake and high cholesterol foods for at least 48 hours before your exam.

The above guidelines should aid you in obtaining the best possible results from your paramedic examination.

In addition, to expedite the completion of your paramedical exam:

• Please advise your paramedical examiner with regard to any medication you are taking, including all non-prescription medications.

• Have a list of physician names, addresses, dates of past visits, prescribed medication and any information regarding injury, major illness, or on-going medical conditions pertaining to those individuals applying for coverage.

You may also obtain a copy of your laboratory results within six to eight weeks of your exam by completing the laboratory request form found in your application packet. Please contact us for further details.