Life insurance is a smart way to help protect your loved ones and plan for the future. Several types of life insurance policies will require you to take a medical exam as part of the process. While the idea of a life insurance medical exam might feel a little intimidating, there’s no need to worry. These exams are typically quick, straightforward, and easy to prepare for. With a few thoughtful steps, you can feel confident and ready for your exam day.
What is a life insurance medical exam?
A life insurance medical exam helps insurance companies understand your current health and lifestyle. The information from your exam plays a key role in determining your eligibility, setting your premiums, and finalizing your policy. The exam usually involves:
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A review of your health history
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Height and weight measurements
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A blood pressure check
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Blood and urine samples
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Occasionally, an EKG (especially for older applicants or those applying for higher coverage)1
The entire appointment typically takes less than an hour and can often be done in your home or at a medical facility approved by your insurer.
How to prepare for a life insurance medical exam
Taking care of yourself and doing a little prep work beforehand can help ensure the results reflect your true health and may even help you qualify for a better rate.
Eat healthy
In the days leading up to your exam, try to stick to nutrient-rich meals. Focus on whole foods like fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Reducing your intake of salt, sugar, caffeine, and processed foods can be helpful too.
It’s a good idea to avoid alcohol for at least 24 to 48 hours before the exam. Steer clear of strong coffee or energy drinks and avoid fasting unless you’re instructed to do so. Some insurers request a fasting blood test, while others don’t. Check the guidelines provided and reach out to your insurer for more information if you need it.
What you eat can affect your blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol levels, which may be measured during the exam. Eating clean, balanced meals regularly can lead to more accurate results and help you avoid potential red flags that might impact your policy terms.
Drink plenty of water
Drinking water before your exam makes it easier for the technician to draw blood and collect a urine sample during the test. Aim to drink plenty of water the day before your exam and have a glass or two the morning of your appointment. You can also drink fresh juices or herbal teas to stay hydrated if you prefer, unless the insurer requires you to fast. In that case, you may still drink water but cannot eat or drink anything else before your exam.
Proper hydration can also help your circulatory system function more effectively, which may improve the ease and comfort of the blood draw. It’s a small step, but one that can make a big difference in the overall experience.
Avoid strenuous exercise
Regular physical activity is great for your health, but don’t overdo it just before a medical exam. Intense workouts right before your exam can temporarily affect your blood pressure resulting in skewed test results. That’s why it’s a good idea to skip the high-intensity cardio or heavy lifting for 24 hours before your exam. Stick to light activity like walking or stretching. The goal is to help your body stay relaxed and at baseline for the most accurate results.
Final tips to help you prepare for your life insurance medical exam
Here are a few additional suggestions to help your medical exam and insurance process to go smoothly:
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Try to get 7 to 9 hours of quality sleep the night before your exam.
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Gather any medical records or information you might need for your medical review.
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Bring a government-issued photo ID to confirm your identity.
If you have questions like "Where can I get my medical exam?" or "How much is life insurance?", talk to your insurer or insurance agent for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Getting life insurance is an important step in helping protect your family's future. With a bit of preparation, your medical exam can be a quick and easy part of that process — and one that moves you closer to the increased peace of mind that coverage can provide.
Source:
1 Forbes - Tips To Prepare For The Life Insurance Medical Exam. Updated September 12, 2023. https://www.forbes.com/advisor/life-insurance/life-insurance-medical-exam-tips/. Accessed August 7, 2025.
Content within this article is provided for general informational purposes and is not provided as tax, legal, health, or financial advice for any person or for any specific situation. Employers, employees, and other individuals should contact their own advisers about their situations. For complete details, including availability and costs of Aflac insurance, please contact your local Aflac agent.
Aflac coverage is underwritten by American Family Life Assurance Company of Columbus. In New York, Aflac coverage is underwritten by American Family Life Assurance Company of New York.
Aflac life plans – A68000 series: Term Life Policies: In Arkansas, Idaho, Oklahoma, Oregon, Texas, Pennsylvania & Virginia, Policies: ICC1368200, ICC1368300, ICC1368400. In Delaware, Policies A68200, A68300 & A68400. In New York, Policies NY68200, NY68300 and NY68400. Whole Life Policies: In Arkansas, Idaho, Oklahoma, Oregon, Texas, Pennsylvania & Virginia, Policies: ICC1368100. In Delaware, Policy A68100. In New York, Policy NYR68100. B60000 series: In Arkansas, Idaho, Oklahoma & Virginia, Policies: ICC18B60C10, ICC18B60100, ICC18B60200, ICC18B60300, & ICC18B60400. Not available in Delaware. Q60000 series/Whole: In Arkansas & Delaware, Policy Q60100M. In Idaho, Policy Q60100MID. In Oklahoma, Policy Q60100MOK. Not available in Virginia. Q60000 series/Term: In Arkansas, Idaho, Oklahoma, Oregon & Texas, Policy ICC18Q60200M. In Delaware, Policy Q60200M. Not available in Virginia.
Coverage may not be available in all states, including but not limited to DE, ID, NJ, NM, NY, VA or VT. Benefits/premium rates may vary based on state and plan levels. Optional riders may be available at an additional cost. Policies and riders may also contain a waiting period. Refer to the exact policy and rider forms for benefit details, definitions, limitations, and exclusions.
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Aflac New York | 22 Corporate Woods Boulevard, Suite 2 | Albany, NY 12211
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