What Is a Statement of Good Health?

A Statement of Good Health is a formal declaration of an individual’s current health status, often referred to as Medical Evidence of Insurability (MEOI) or Proof of Good Health. This document is required by various entities to assess an applicant’s physical condition, providing a snapshot of one’s well-being and helping organizations make informed decisions.

Understanding a Statement of Good Health

This statement is most commonly requested when applying for new insurance policies, such as life insurance or health insurance, or when seeking to increase coverage on existing policies. Entities, particularly insurance companies, require this statement to assess risk and determine appropriate premiums. By obtaining a comprehensive overview of an applicant’s health, insurers can mitigate adverse selection, where individuals with higher health risks are more likely to seek coverage. This process ensures policy pricing reflects actual health risks, maintaining fairness and sustainability within the insurance pool.

Beyond insurance, a Statement of Good Health may be necessary for other situations, including enrollment in employment benefits like group life or disability plans. It can also be a requirement for certain immigration visas or for employees returning to work after an absence. The document’s role extends to various processes where an individual’s health status determines eligibility or contractual obligations.

Details Requested on the Statement

A Statement of Good Health requests specific health-related information to provide a comprehensive picture of an individual’s well-being. This includes personal identifying details, such as name and contact information. The form also inquires about current health conditions, recent medical treatments, and all prescribed medications.

Applicants are often asked about their medical history, including past diagnoses, hospitalizations, and any chronic conditions. Questions may extend to lifestyle choices, such as tobacco use, and whether there have been any significant changes in health since a prior medical evaluation or insurance application. Providing accurate and complete details, including physician contact information, is important as omissions can cause delays in processing.

Submitting the Statement

Once the Statement of Good Health is completed with all the required information, individuals can submit it through various common methods. These typically include online portals provided by the requesting entity, sending the document via mail, or utilizing fax services. In some cases, direct submission to an insurance agent or an employer’s human resources department may be an option.

The statement is generally submitted to the insurance provider or the employer who requested it, depending on the specific context of the application. After submission, the requesting party will review the form to determine eligibility or coverage. Individuals should expect a confirmation of receipt, and in some instances, there might be follow-up questions or requests for additional medical information, such as a physical examination or an Attending Physician’s Statement. While processing times can vary, some health declarations may be processed within a week, though requests for more information can extend this timeframe.