The type of life insurance you choose and the company you get the insurance through determines whether a medical exam is required. There are two main types of insurance: Term Life and Permanent Life. To find out more about the main types of life insurance, visit an insurance company Web site like MetLife or Mass Mutual Financial Group.

Once you have decided on the type of life insurance you want, your insurance company will let you know if a medical exam is required. Insurance companies have different ways of pricing life insurance based on medical history and/or a medical exam:

- Underwritten policies require answers to medical questions and a medical exam.

- Simplified Issue policies require answers to some medical questions, but a medical exam is not required.

- Guaranteed Acceptance or Guaranteed Issue policies do not require any medical history or examination, but most require that an individual be a certain age.

An Underwritten policy may be a good option if you are in good health or have only a few minor health issues. This policy is usually tailored specifically for each individual. Simplified Issue policies and Guaranteed Issue policies usually have a set price for everyone.

If your insurance company requires a medical exam for the life insurance you choose, the exam is mandatory. Your application will not be processed without the exam results. You can expect the exam to cover some or all of the following:

- Questions about medical history

- Height and weight

- Blood Pressure

- Pulse

- Blood and urine samples

- Tests geared toward age and amount of coverage desired

This medical exam is generally performed by a paramedical (licensed health professional) who comes to your home or office rather than your personal doctor. The results of this medical exam help determine the rate of your insurance policy. For more information regarding life insurance medical exams, visit Matrix Direct Insurance Services or LifeInsuranceHub.net.