Life Insurance
Paramedical Exam
A paramedical exam is a simplified medical examination—typically 20–30 minutes, conducted at the applicant's home or workplace by a trained paramedical technician—used by life insurance underwriters to collect blood, urine, and vital sign data to assess the applicant's health and mortality risk.
Last reviewed: May 2026 · Editorial methodology
Definition
The paramedical exam is the standard underwriting tool for life insurance applications requesting $100,000 or more in coverage, conducted at no cost to the applicant by a vendor contracted by the insurer (common vendors include ExamOne and APPS). The exam typically includes: height, weight, and blood pressure measurement; collection of a blood sample for a complete blood panel (including cholesterol, glucose, liver and kidney function, and HIV/AIDS testing); a urine sample for kidney function, protein, glucose, and drug screening; and an EKG for applicants over age 40 or for larger face amounts. Results are transmitted directly to the insurer's underwriting department and used in conjunction with medical records, prescription history, and MIB data to assign a health classification. Blood test results revealing undiagnosed conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, or elevated PSA can lead to follow-up requirements, table ratings, or declinations. The turnaround from exam to underwriting decision is typically 1–4 weeks. Applicants should fast for 4–8 hours before the exam (fasting improves cholesterol and glucose readings), avoid heavy exercise for 24 hours, and be well-hydrated for blood draw.
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Cover Forge USA Editorial Team
Editorial Lead
This article was researched and written by the Cover Forge USA editorial team against federal sources (NAIC, CMS, FEMA, DOL, SSA, state DOIs) and standard policy forms. Bylines organize content by topic — they do not assert individual licensure. See our editorial-policy for details.
Reviewed 2026-06-14
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