Could you please advise me on what factors to consider when reviewing AAA life insurance policies? I recently enrolled with AAA for life insurance because I’m satisfied with their car and home insurance services. The initial phone application process was smooth, and based on my age, the AAA agent suggested I might not need a physical exam. However, I was later surprised when someone scheduled a home visit for a physical exam, including blood tests and weighing. Now, I’m receiving calls from a company requesting a medical release form to obtain my medical records from Kaiser for the past three years.
I’m concerned because the agent didn’t inform me about these procedures upfront, and I find them intrusive. My primary worry is the legitimacy of these companies contacting me directly for personal information, especially after visiting my home and seeking medical records without prior notice.
Due to my job, where I witness frequent issues, I’m feeling particularly cautious. Could you please advise me if this process is standard practice?
This process is standard. While many insurance carriers are moving towards a fully non-exam process, there are instances where an exam is still necessary. This could be triggered by information from your prescription history or previous medical visits, including the type of healthcare provider you’ve consulted.
The underwriter simply requires more information about your health history to assess your application.
Requesting health records from Kaiser is also standard procedure, as they require a specific HIPAA authorization form for releasing your medical information. The agent likely didn’t mention this initially because they anticipated a straightforward application process. It’s a common oversight for agents.
It would have been better if you were informed upfront that a medical exam might be required and that your medical records could be requested.
Agreed, this is accurate. Insurance companies that send a nurse to take physical measurements and blood and urine samples tend to be more reliable than those that offer automatic approval.
Life insurance is vastly different from car and home insurance; it’s the foundation of your financial plan. You should stop handling your financial planning over the phone and seek a professional financial advisor who also deals with life insurance. This advisor should meet with you in person and assess whether you have the right amount of life insurance.
Phone-based agents are often desperate for their 50% commission and may not genuinely care if your policy adequately protects your family.
