What is an Attending Physician Statement (APS)?

An Attending Physician Statement (APS) is an examination report provided by the applicant's physician that offers a detailed account of the individual's medical history, current health status, and any relevant treatments or diagnoses. This document is critical in the underwriting process for life and health insurance as it helps insurers assess the risk associated with providing coverage. The APS typically includes information such as the physician's observations, findings from physical examinations, and the results of any relevant tests. This thorough medical insight enables insurance companies to make informed decisions regarding underwriting and premium setting.

In the context of the other options, a report on the applicant's insurance history pertains to their past insurance coverage, which is different from the direct assessments of health provided in an APS. A summary of the applicant's financial background relates to their financial stability and ability to pay premiums, not their health status. A statement about the applicant's health benefits refers to the specifics of what a health plan covers, which also does not encompass the medical evaluations found in an APS. Thus, the examination report from the applicant's physician is the key function of an APS in the insurance process.