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What is a paramedical exam and how long
does it take?
A paramedical exam consists of some questions about your
medical history, measurements of your height and weight,
blood pressure and pulse. A urine specimen is also collected.
Undressing is not required and the exam usually lasts 20
to 30 minutes. Your application for insurance is not complete
until we have obtained this necessary information.
Why will a urine specimen be collected?
A urine specimen will always be collected during a paramedical
exam. The tests done are determined by the insurance company
and are performed by a laboratory. The test results will
be sent only to the insurance company and are used in the
underwriting process.
What happens to this information?
All of the information obtained during the paramedical examination
is strictly confidential and for insurance purposes only.
It will be forwarded to the insurance company for review
to help evaluate your individual policy.
How is the appointment made and where?
Portamedic will call you to schedule a date, time and place
convenient for you. You may elect to have the exam completed
at your home or office, or many people prefer to come to
our location. You make the decision to fit your schedule.
Medical Services
What qualifications are required of physicians and what
services do they perform?
Sometimes a physician is required by the insurance company to perform the examination.
Portamedic contracts with physicians who have a current license, are in good
standing and practice in a specialty area approved by the insurance company
and Portamedic. These physicians provide services such as medical exams, treadmill
ECGs, X-rays, etc.
Blood Testing
Why is blood testing required?
Blood testing has been found to provide important information for underwriting
purposes. A wide range of tests are completed by a laboratory and the results
are sent only to the insurance company.
How much blood is required?
Less than one ounce of blood is drawn from a vein, into 1-3 vials, by experienced
personnel. You may be required to fast from 4-12 hours depending on the requirements
of the insurance company. You should advice your examiner if you have had
previous problems such as fainting, nausea, are currently taking large doses
of aspirin, have difficulty clotting or bruise easily.
Can you get an infectious disease from this blood draw?
No. The sterile materials used are in disposable kits and used only once. The
examiner will open the kit in front of you as well as show the seal being
broken on the sterile needle.
What tests will be completed?
Each individual insurance company selects the tests they
need for the underwriting procedure. Portamedic is requested
only to collect and prepare blood for analysis; the insurance
company gives instructions to the lab regarding specific
tests. You are required to sign a consent form and a chain-of-custody
form for your own protection.
Who will receive the results of your
test?
The lab sends the results directly to the insurance company.
Electrocardiogram (ECG)
What is an electrocardiogram?
It is a recording of the electrical impulses associated with cardiac contraction
and relaxation. The ECG does not cause any pain.
What should I expect?
You will be asked to lie down flat with your shirt unbuttoned in order to place
the leads on your chest. Women must remove stockings prior to the exam.
What can I do to assist the technician to obtain a good
ECG?
The best preparation is to remain calm and totally relaxed to prevent muscle
interference.
Try
looking at our Life Insurance Examination Checklist so
you're ready for a successful exam!
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