“Maintain a healthy weight and your chances of developing high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes and even some forms of cancer are reduced.” Kiplinger’s April 2007

      Have the testing done at your convenience. Early mornings are good because most people are relaxed then. Avoid caffeine and don’t eat heavily – or at all.

     Limit your intake of salt for several days before the physical. Avoid alcohol for at least 24 hours. Both can raise your blood pressure.

     Make sure that the tester knows that you are a non-smoker (if you are) as insurance premiums are cheaper for non-smokers.

     Try to see your personal doctor before the exam so there are no surprises. Your doctor can also give you tips as to how improve your test results.

     If you take medications, stick to the regimen. Maintaining the treatments will keep test results in line. Your insurance company will know about them anyway.

    If you feel ill or tired before the test, re-schedule it for a different day. The most important thing is to feel relaxed and healthy when you take the test.

     If you fail the test, don’t give up. Get in shape and re-take the test a few months later. You can also shop around. Insurance companies differ on their standards. If that doesn’t work, try to find a club or an organization that offers group insurance. It may pay to join just for the insurance benefits.

     You or your spouse could get a job where group medical plans are available. When the open enrollment period begins, you will be able to join the insurance plan without a physical exam or without asking any medical questions.

     Your insurance agent should tell you if your premium is “rated”, higher than normal due to an irregularity.

      Keep records of doctor visits including diagnoses and all medications required.

      Look to state high-risk pools for clients who have been rejected on the individual market. These pools are insurers of last resort in the 30-plus states that have them. Be sure to look into their residency requirements and preexisting condition limitations.

      Beware of medical discount cards that rarely deliver the hefty discounts on healthcare that they promise.