What does the medical exam for life insurance involve?

The medical exam for a life insurance policy is a free, 15 to 45 minute appointment at your home or office, consisting of a medical history questionnaire plus standard vitals, blood, and urine samples. The blood and urine screenings measure cholesterol, blood sugar, and liver and kidney function, and screen for nicotine, drugs, alcohol, HIV, and hepatitis. Results go to the underwriter, and approval can take a day to a few weeks.