What is the typical waiting period for group health insurance policies?

The typical waiting period for group health insurance policies is indeed 30 to 90 days. This waiting period often allows the insurance company to assess the risks associated with the group being insured and to administer the enrollment process efficiently. During this timeframe, newly eligible members may not have access to coverage for certain services, but it helps ensure that the insurer can manage claims and premium costs effectively.

Employers usually set this waiting period as a way to promote employee retention and to manage the dynamics of their workforce. It allows organizations to stabilize their insurance costs by ensuring that only committed employees enroll in the health plan, minimizing the risk of adverse selection, where only those needing immediate medical care choose to enroll.

Shorter waiting periods or no waiting periods can sometimes be found in specific policies or situations, but they are less common in typical group health plans, which further reinforces the relevance of the identified range.