Unveiling the Convenience of Video Medical Examination (MER) for Term Insurance

In today’s fast-paced world, convenience has become a driving force in our daily lives. The insurance industry is no exception, and term insurance providers have embraced innovative solutions to streamline the application process. One such solution is the Video Medical Examination (MER), a game-changer in the world of term insurance underwriting. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the concept of Video MER, its benefits, and how it can simplify the process of securing your family’s financial future.

What is Video MER?

Video MER, short for Video Medical Examination Report, is a modern approach to medical underwriting for term insurance policies. It involves a video call between the insurance applicant (proposer) and a licensed medical professional, typically a doctor or a registered nurse. During this video call, the medical professional conducts a comprehensive medical examination, asking relevant questions about the applicant’s health history, current conditions, and overall well-being.

The process is designed to be convenient and efficient, eliminating the need for the applicant to physically visit a medical facility or undergo extensive medical tests. The doctor can observe the applicant’s physical appearance, assess their responses, and make an informed decision about their health risks and eligibility for term insurance coverage.

Why Video MER is Gaining Popularity

The rise of Video MER can be attributed to several factors, including:

1. Convenience: With Video MER, applicants can undergo the medical examination process from the comfort of their own homes or preferred locations, without the hassle of scheduling appointments or traveling to clinics.

2. Time-Saving: Traditional medical examinations often involve waiting periods and lengthy processes. Video MER streamlines the process, saving valuable time for both the applicant and the insurance provider.

3. Accessibility: Video MER eliminates geographical barriers, making it easier for applicants in remote or underserved areas to access medical underwriting services.

4. Cost-Effective: By eliminating the need for physical visits and extensive medical tests, Video MER can be a more cost-effective solution for both insurance providers and applicants.

5. Pandemic Preparedness: The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the importance of remote services, and Video MER became a vital tool for insurance providers to continue operations while minimizing risks.

The Process of Video MER

The Video MER process typically follows these steps:

1. Application Submission: The applicant submits their term insurance application, providing necessary personal and financial details.

2. Video Call Scheduling: The insurance provider schedules a video call with the applicant at a mutually convenient time.

3. Identity Verification: Before the examination begins, the medical professional verifies the applicant’s identity, often through government-issued identification documents.

4. Medical Examination: The medical professional conducts a thorough medical examination, asking questions about the applicant’s medical history, current health conditions, lifestyle habits, and family medical history.

5. Observation and Assessment: The medical professional observes the applicant’s physical appearance, speech patterns, and overall demeanor during the video call, making assessments based on their medical expertise.

6. Report Generation: After the examination, the medical professional prepares a detailed report summarizing their findings and recommendations.

7. Underwriting Decision: The insurance provider’s underwriting team reviews the Video MER report, along with other relevant information, to determine the applicant’s eligibility for term insurance coverage and the appropriate premium rates.

Benefits of Video MER for Applicants

Video MER offers several benefits for term insurance applicants:

• Convenience: No need to schedule appointments or travel to medical facilities, saving time and effort.
• Flexibility: Applicants can undergo the examination from any location with a stable internet connection and a compatible device.
• Privacy: The video call provides a private and comfortable environment for discussing sensitive medical information.
• Faster Processing: Video MER can expedite the underwriting process, leading to quicker policy issuance.
• Accessibility: Applicants in remote areas or with mobility challenges can easily access medical underwriting services.

Benefits of Video MER for Insurance Providers

Video MER also offers advantages for term insurance providers:

• Cost Savings: By eliminating the need for physical medical examinations and associated logistics, Video MER can reduce operational costs.
• Improved Efficiency: The streamlined process enables faster underwriting decisions and policy issuance, enhancing overall efficiency.
• Expanded Reach: Video MER allows insurance providers to serve applicants in remote or underserved areas, expanding their customer base.
• Risk Mitigation: The comprehensive medical examination and observation during the video call can help identify potential risks and make informed underwriting decisions.
• Customer Satisfaction: The convenience and ease of Video MER can improve customer satisfaction and brand loyalty.

Preparing for a Video MER

If you’re considering term insurance and have been requested to undergo a Video MER, here are some tips to ensure a smooth and successful experience:

• Choose a quiet and well-lit location for the video call.
• Ensure a stable internet connection and a compatible device (laptop, tablet, or smartphone) with a camera and microphone.
• Have your government-issued identification documents ready for identity verification.
• Gather any relevant medical records, test results, or medication lists that may be helpful during the examination.
• Be prepared to answer questions about your medical history, current health conditions, lifestyle habits, and family medical history accurately and honestly.
• Dress appropriately and ensure a professional demeanor during the video call.

Embracing the Future of Term Insurance Underwriting

Video MER is rapidly transforming the term insurance industry, offering a convenient, efficient, and customer-centric approach to medical underwriting. By leveraging this technology, insurance providers can streamline their processes, reduce operational costs, and provide a seamless experience for applicants. As the demand for term insurance continues to grow, Video MER emerges as a valuable solution, empowering individuals to secure their family’s financial future with ease and confidence.