Renal Failure: Assessing The Life Insurance Risk

As with all life insurance risk evaluations, the evidence of other maladies can complicate the determination of assessing the applicant.

Chronic diseases such as diabetes and hypertension are leading factors relating to the damage they can cause to the kidneys. Good physician follow-up in keeping blood sugars under control and blood pressure within normal limits are a measure in determining kidney failure. If kidney failure is present and these issues are not treated aggressively, deterioration will result and continue to progress resulting in complete renal failure.

When an applicant has renal history or risk factors, remember first to review any kidney function tests.

Keep in mind a slight elevation in a creatinine level does not always indicate renal disease is present. There are many medications that may elevate creatinine, including regular aspirin. Individuals who have a history of weight lifting or who have a muscular build tend to secrete higher levels of creatinine, too.

As well, elevations in BUN, although not as specific as creatinine, can be an indicator of other events. For instance, increased BUN is seen in those who have bleeding ulcers or who may have diets high in protein.

So, although both these tests are good indicators for assessing the risk, be sure to review all the evidence before introducing the case.

Chronic renal failure cases are somewhat difficult to assess and should initially be reviewed by gathering evidence to present to the insurance company underwriting department. Information such as treatment for any known causes, blood pressure histories, current and past lab results showing the GFR, and any recorded complications will need to be included. Evidence showing the disease has been caught early may result in a positive prognosis.

To be considered an insurable life insurance risk for acute renal failure, the applicant should be able to show good physician follow-up.

Diabetes, hypertension, vascular problems and cardiac conditions that are not controlled are major factors which have an adverse effect on the prognosis and outcome of acute renal failure. If these issues are not maintained and controlled, it would be difficult to present this type of risk for a favorable underwriting determination. However, cases showing a good treatment regime and control of the underlying complications will slow the progression of permanent kidney damage.

In conclusion, be aware that carefully selected cases can be acceptable for life underwriting. A standard rating is not always likely; however, it's not impossible for those having acute renal failure.

Good communication between advisor and applicant is the key to helping organize the case effectively. Be sure to ask the proper questions to obtain the pertinent information which will aid in adequately presenting the case in an organized format for the best possible underwriting consideration.