When applying for life insurance, you may receive a request for an attending physician statement (APS). This document, which life insurance carriers typically request during the underwriting process, provides detailed medical information from your attending physician and offers insights into your health history, current medical conditions, and past and current treatments. Insurance companies use an APS to assess your health status when applying for coverage to determine the level of risk involved in providing coverage. Let’s walk through how an APS is obtained and why this documentation is an important aspect of applying for life insurance.
Completing and Obtaining an Attending Physician Statement
It’s essential for a doctor who is familiar with your health history to submit the APS so they can provide detailed, up-to-date information about your medical history and current health status. Your primary care physician or OB-GYN are good choices for providers who can complete this document. If you also see a specialist for a particular condition or ongoing health concern, insurance providers may request an APS from them as well because they work with you consistently and have an in-depth understanding of your medical needs. For example, if you’re dealing with a mental health condition like depression, an insurance company may request an APS from the doctor overseeing your treatment. After providing the insurance company with authorization to request an APS, your physician’s office will send the document directly to the carrier.
Does every applicant need an APS when applying for life insurance?
In many cases, you may not need to provide an APS as part of the life insurance application process. However, there are specific situations in which an APS may be required by the insurance company, including:
Pre-Existing Medical Conditions: If you disclose significant pre-existing medical conditions, the insurance company may request an APS to obtain more detailed information from your attending physician.
High Coverage Amounts: When applying for a substantial amount of life insurance coverage, the insurer may request an APS to ensure they have a comprehensive understanding of your health status and medical history.
Complex Health History: If you have a complex medical history, ongoing medical treatments, or multiple health conditions, the insurance company may request an APS to learn more about your health status.
Overall, an APS is valuable information that carriers use to assess your risk level and determine your premiums fairly, so it’s important to fulfill the request for this documentation accurately.
Let SelectQuote Guide You Through the Life Insurance Application Process
Navigating the life insurance application process may seem challenging, especially if you’re unsure whether you need certain documentation, like an attending physician statement. Fortunately, with nearly 40 years of experience, SelectQuote’s licensed insurance agents are prepared to guide you, making it easy to find and compare life insurance policies. In just minutes, you’ll be able to review rates from several of the nation’s most trusted carriers and have a better understanding of your options and eligibility.
