Which factor influences whether an insurance policy will be issued to an individual?

Health status is a critical factor influencing whether an insurance policy will be issued to an individual. Insurers conduct health assessments to determine the risk involved in insuring an applicant. Individuals with pre-existing conditions or serious health issues may present a higher risk for the insurer, impacting underwriting decisions. If a person's health status is deemed too risky, the insurer may deny coverage or impose exclusions, waiting periods, or higher premiums to offset their risk.

While income level, age, and employment type can also be relevant in assessing an individual's overall risk profile, they do not directly influence the issuance of a policy to the same extent as health status does. For example, someone may have a high income but poor health, leading to challenges in obtaining coverage. Thus, health status is the primary determinant in the underwriting process for issuing an insurance policy.