What to expect from a nurse medical screening

When you apply for life insurance, serious illness cover, or income protection, one of the key steps in the process is medical underwriting. This is a crucial part of ensuring that you receive the appropriate coverage. Typically, this process includes a health questionnaire, a review of your medical records, and sometimes a medical examination.

At Zurich we try to make this process as easy as possible. If we need to request a medical screening, we will usually specify a nurse medical screening. Getting a nurse medical can be more convenient for you than getting a report from your doctor. We will help you, so you don’t have the hassle of having to travel to and arrange the medical examination yourself and the examination will likely take up less time.

What is a nurse medical screening?

A nurse medical screening provides a “snapshot” of your physical wellbeing, and it consists of two parts. The first part involves a series of health questions relating to your past medical history, the date of and reason for your last GP attendance, your family history and your habits (smoking and alcohol consumption).

The second part records a physical examination for which the exact requirements will be determined by the insurer. During this examination the nurse will record some measurements such as your height and weight, your hip-to-waist ratio, your blood pressure and pulse, and your lung function. A urine specimen will also be collected and tested for blood, glucose, or protein. If blood or protein is detected, the urine specimen may be sent to a laboratory for further testing. The nurse will sometimes also take bloods but only when this is requested by insurer.

To learn what you can expect from a nurse medical screening, download our client flyer.