I like to think of underwriters as the dudes in the dungeons of fancy insurance buildings doing “the maths,” i.e. assessing the chances that you will claim.Much like clampers, it’s natural to get mad at underwriters if it doesn’t go your way. However, they are actually just regular people doing a job.While the actual maths involved can get pretty complicated, the process itself isn’t that difficult.The insurer receives the application you submit to them. It goes to their underwriters who will either start doing “the maths” or request more medical info.If your case is straightforward, they’ll offer you cover immediately. Happy days.If your case is complicated (say you have a pre-existing condition), they may need more information in the form of a questionnaire or medical report.