Health Conditions That Affect Your Life Insurance

Your health condition has a profound effect on your life insurance.  Your insurance policy can be more difficult to get, or more expensive depending on your health condition.  It is one of the main reasons many people do not get life insurance.  But how big of an impact does it really have?

Severity of condition

One important aspect often overlooked is the fact that illnesses vary in severity between people.  You may have one of the conditions highlighted by insurance companies, but this can have little to no effect on your policy.  Insurance companies typically classify the conditions as below.

1. Standard
2. Preferred
3. Preferred Plus

Depending on the provider, there can be a 20%-30% difference in price between classifications.  


Common health conditions and how are they classified

If you are suffering from any of the following, it does not mean you are no longer qualified for life insurance.  For example, if you are under the care of your doctor and your condition is managed, this can still give you a preferred rating.  

Each insurance company will have their own way of classifying the severity of your condition.  However, here is a general look into the most common health conditions.  

• Obesity
  • Standard will be at a (Body Mass Index) BMI of 34 - 38
  • Preferred will be at a (Body Mass Index) BMI of 28-34
  • Preferred Plus will be at a (Body Mass Index) BMI of 26 – 28

 

• Hypertension
  • Standard will be a blood pressure of 150/90 with medication
  • Preferred will be a blood pressure of 140/90 with medication
  • Preferred Plus will be a blood pressure of 140/90 without medication

 

• High Cholesterol
  • Standard at a maximum of 300-350 mg/dl
  • Preferred at a maximum of 250 mg/dl
  • Preferred Plus at a maximum of 220 mg/dl

 

• Acid Reflux
  • Standard if your condition is moderate to severe and may need surgery
  • Preferred if your condition is managed by prescription medicines
  • Preferred Plus if your condition is mild and treated by over the counter medication

Conclusion

The parameters for classification listed here is only a guide.  The actual classification will depend on your insurance provider.  The main point here is to not let these conditions stop you from getting life insurance.  Remember, these conditions improve if treated properly.  Do not let the misconception of high prices steer you away from protecting yourself and your family.  

At Insurance of the West, we aim to make our client's life easier with policies that are tailored to their needs. You can get more information about our products and services by calling our agency at (425) 681-0996. Get your free quote today by CLICKING HERE.