If you are applying for a life insurance policy in Houston, TX, chances are you need a paramedical exam. Paramedical exams are essential for the underwriting and application process for life insurance policies.
Life insurance companies pay for these exams for applicants. Whether you get the exam at home or in a doctor’s office, its results determine your health class rating, coverage, and other policy details. Many people often wonder how to prepare for and successfully complete the exam.
This article reviews everything you need to know about readying yourself for a paramedical exam.
What Does a Paramedical Exam Entail?
During the exam, a medical professional typically does the following:
- Measures your height and weight
- Reads your blood pressure
- Takes a urine sample
- Takes a blood sample or performs a blood test
- Conducts an EKG (electrocardiogram)
Most insurance companies allow the applicant to choose where to receive their paramedical exam. Following the appointment, insurance underwriters use the exam information and results to determine whether you qualify for coverage, your health class, your premium amounts, and how much coverage you are eligible for under the desired policy.
How To Prepare for the Exam
Since the results of a paramedical exam in Houston, TX, determine how much you will pay in premiums and the coverage you receive, it is essential to aim for the best results possible. Fortunately, you can take various steps to prepare for the exam.
Fast Between Four and Eight Hours Before the Exam
Fasting four to eight hours before the exam can help you achieve favorable results. If possible, err on the side of eight hours.
One way to do this is by scheduling the exam early in the morning and not eating breakfast before going in. This allows you to fast overnight and not feel tempted to snack or break the fast.
Avoid Salty Foods
Foods high in sugar and cholesterol can affect your test results. Along with fasting the night before, avoid eating salty foods or anything that can raise your glucose and cholesterol levels.
In addition, remember to drink plenty of water. Not only does this keep you hydrated, but it also flushes out toxins and cleans your system.
Don’t Drink Alcohol or Caffeine
Consuming alcohol increases blood pressure and can affect liver function readings. Avoid drinking alcoholic beverages for at least 24 hours before your exam appointment for optimal results.
Additionally, caffeine quickly elevates blood pressure. Abstain from caffeinated beverages and foods for at least 24 hours.
Be Consistent With Your Medications
Being consistent with your medications is essential for your health and exam results, especially if you take drugs for blood pressure or cholesterol. Insurance companies also look favorably upon those who take their medications as they should, which can help achieve better paramedical exam results.
Avoid Smoking
Smoking before your exam could lead to higher blood pressure readings. To avoid this, refrain from smoking for at least an hour before the appointment.
Rethink Certain Supplements
Although it is important to continue taking your routine medications, you should consider leaving out supplements leading up to your exam. Certain supplements can affect liver function readings.
If you have non-essential supplements that you routinely take, avoid them on the day of your exam.
Other Tips
Aside from the steps mentioned above, ensure you get enough sleep the night before. In addition, avoid exercising for at least 12 hours before the appointment, as this can increase your heart rate.
Need to schedule a paramedical exam in Houston, TX? Call our team at Medical Profiles Inc. today at (832) 251-3926.
