If a health insurance applicant is required to undergo a physical examination, who typically bears the cost?

In health insurance underwriting, when an applicant is required to undergo a physical examination, it is typically the insurer that bears the cost of this examination. This is because the physical exam is a part of the underwriting process, which the insurer uses to assess the applicant's health risks and make informed decisions about coverage and premiums.

Insurers generally cover the cost to encourage applicants to complete these examinations, as they are essential for accurate risk assessment. By assuming this expense, insurers streamline the application process and help applicants avoid additional out-of-pocket costs, which could deter them from applying or providing complete health information.

This practice also reflects the insurer's interest in obtaining detailed and essential medical information for evaluating health risks thoroughly. It is part of the insurer's responsibility to manage and control their underwriting process effectively.