CLHIA-ACCAP - Consumer Information

24 WHAT HAPPENS WHEN YOU APPLY Each insurance company sets its own rules for confirming the information supplied in the application and the health questionnaire. Requirements typically vary according to age and the amount of insurance. The older you are, the more likely that health information will be confirmed, for example, by a statement from your personal physician or by a medical or paramedical examination. To illustrate, a company might stipulate that no medical is required for up to $200,000 of coverage up to age 35. But for those in the 46-50 age group, a medical could be required at $50,000 coverage. Such confirmation might be required for lower amounts if the available information is incomplete or indicates a possible problem. These are illustrations only. Your agent can explain the requirements more fully. For large amounts of life insurance or where an unfavourable health history is involved, the company may request other evidence such as an electrocardiogram or other test. When a medical is required • Life insurance companies recognize the importance of protecting the confi- dentiality of the personal information they obtain. All employees of insurance companies, agents, brokers, or anyone else acting for an insurance compa- ny, must comply with strict privacy rules. • The consent of the individual is the bottom line. Most personal information is obtained directly from the individual who applies for a policy. If information is required from any other source, the individual concerned will be notified, and his or her written authorization will be obtained whenever possible. And no informa- tion will be used for any other purpose or disclosed to any other party without the individual's consent, unless required by law. • If you want to know what personal information an insurance company has in its records about you, you can, with proper identification, write to the company and request it. A fee may be charged to cover the administrative costs. Medical information may be released to you only through your personal physician. Also, you may correct what you believe to be erroneous personal information. • If you do have a concern or complaint, each insurance company has an officer to handle enquiries and complaints regarding personal information. Privacy of personal information

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