Pharmacy check is an underwriting tool that uses prescription-history databases to identify medications an applicant has filled, helping insurers corroborate health disclosures and detect undisclosed conditions. Reports typically list drug names, dosages, and fill dates but not diagnoses. While pharmacy checks improve risk assessment efficiency, they must be used in compliance with privacy laws and with appropriate context, since some medications have multiple indications and may not reflect current use.

Underwriters order pharmacy checks on many life and disability applications, comparing results to stated medical histories. Discrepancies"such as prescriptions for insulin, antidepressants, or cardiac drugs that were not disclosed"often trigger additional questions or medical-record requests. Advisors should inform clients that prescription history may be reviewed and emphasize the importance of full disclosure. Understanding pharmacy checks helps advisors reduce surprises in underwriting, anticipate follow-up requirements, and reassure clients about how data is used to assess risk fairly.