When a nurse from an insurance co comes...?

Question

when a nurse comes to do those tests before you can buy life insurance, what do they test you for, as far as blood work?

I had one done about two weeks ago, and they said something in my blood work showed up so I can't get it. Now I'm totally TOTALLY having a panic attack, like what if I have Aids or syphalis or something?!?! I know that's probably not what it is, but I have a huge fear of contracting stuff like that...

What it probably is is that I forgot to tell them I have a fatty-liver, and if they did a liver function test, my numbers would be high. Do you think they test for that? Thanks.

*having a huge panic attack*

Answer 1

More than likely it had to do with your liver function, cholesterol or enzymes

or it could be that you have mild diabetes

Anyway if they are using it as a basis to deny coverage they are bound by law to tell you EXACTLY why you were denied

Answer 2

Insurers will routinely require a LFT panel when testing an applicant's blood.  If you have a fatty liver, this would definately show up on the LFT's.

My advice to you is to "come clean" with the insurer:  tell them (through the agent) that you have a fatty liver and ask them to obtain a copy of your medical records.  Unless your fatty liver is in an advanced stage, you'll be offered a policy with an extra "rating" that compensates for your higher risk category.  

You should also request in writing that the insurer provide a copy of the test results to your personal physician (most won't provide the results directly to you).

You may be thinking that you'll just apply with another company.  However, the vast majority of life insurers report information disclosed on applications and obtained via tests and medical records to the Medical Information Bureau.  So when you apply again, the new insurer will run your name/DOB through the MIB and find out you had an abnormal LFT -- and it will start asking questions.

EDIT:  FYI, life insurers are not required by law to tell you "exactly" why you were declined.  They are permitted to use nebulous, non-specific verbiage that doesn't really tell you anything.  So for example, if the reason was an abnormal LFT, the insurer will say you were declined "due to blood profile results."  It is NOT required by law to be any more specific than that.  If you need more information, you should contact your state's insurance commissioner's office.

Answer 3

it's probably something like high cholesterol or something like that.  just go get a blood test done at your family drs.  they would have found a way to let you know if it was something life threatening.  just breathe deep==it will be fine!

Answer 4

Your fatty liver probably caused abnormal liver function tests (LFT's).  You can ask to see a copy of your lab results from the insurer and take them to your doctor.  If you haven't already discussed this in detail with your doctor, now would be an ideal time.

I differ with Suzanne on one point.  I think you should look for other offers.  

With the lab information and your doctor's advice on a plan of action (or inaction), your insurance broker (assuming they are independent or have access to independent channels) can "shop your risk" with multiple carriers on an "informal" basis.  If a company accepts you knowing about your labs in advance, the underwriter should not be surprised to see an MIB hit.  Doing this on an "informal" basis before you apply formally would not result in unnecessary MIB hits and should tell you who would entertain your specific risk.

Good luck

edit: I thought you were buying the coverage to protect your family, not to generate a commission to your in-law.  If you do not need the coverage, give him the money instead.  But somehow, I think you have a kid who might need the insurance if you aren't around.