Ask the Underwriter

Place the Case: Diabetes Mellitus

Diabetes is a syndrome characterized by high blood sugar in which there is not enough insulin being produced (Type 1) or the insulin that is produced is ineffective (Type 2).

Symptoms of diabetes include frequent urination, excessive thirst, extreme hunger, unsual weight loss, increased fatigue and blurry vision. The Centers for Disease Control estimate that in the U.S., diabetes affects over 18 million people or over 6% of the population. Of this group, a third are undiagnosed and insurance testing is a primary way of detecting it.

The diagnosis of diabetes is made based on the presence of elevated glucose with suggestive symptoms or an abnormal blood glucose test. Hemoglobin A1c is a test that is very useful in the underwriting of life insurance, and typically a concern once it reaches levels of
6.0 or greater.

Underwriting decisions for diabetes are very dependent on age of diagnosis and, of course, the level of control. Quite a few carriers are able to get to a Standard rating in the ideal situation with above readings, good compliance, and regular follow up with the doctor; but a Table 2-4 is typically what you'll be looking at for a starting point, in most instances.

Typically, there are height and weight issues, as well as hypertension concerns, and these will factor into the ratings as well.

As always, we're here to help you answer questions, and provide the best underwriting services possible to help you place cases.

Underwriting is an Art, Not a Science.. Let us help you
paint the right picture!

Your In-house Agency Underwriter,

Mike Woods
(916) 960-8708 Direct
(800) 823-4852 x8708
mwoods@pinneyinsurance.com

Assisting you to quote at a more realistic rate based on your client's health history Providing the tools to help you ask the best questions Helping set expectations and minimizing surprises of underwriting Increase cases paid and minimize Non-Taken Offers; boosting profitability for all!