Depending on the type of life insurance purchased, a physical exam may or may not be required as part of the examination process. Generally the higher the death benefit, the more likely the insurance company will require a physical. If a physical is required a paramedic generally performs it in your own home. He or she will ask a series of medical questions, measure your height and weight, take blood and urine samples, and probably run an EKG to check your heart health. Your medical records will be requested, and again depending on the value of the policy, the insurance company may also look at other information such as your credit and driving records.