In Colorado, when can health insurers impose waiting periods for coverage?

In Colorado, health insurers may impose waiting periods for coverage primarily during late enrollment or during specific special enrollment events. This is consistent with applicable regulations that allow for waiting periods to ensure that individuals who do not enroll during the designated times may face limitations on when their coverage will take effect. This approach helps to manage risk for the insurer by encouraging timely enrollment and ensuring that individuals do not wait until they need medical care to obtain insurance.

Other scenarios, such as policy renewals, prior coverage, or new insurance products, do not typically provide the basis for waiting periods under Colorado law. Therefore, they do not align with the legal framework governing health insurance practices in the state. Imposing waiting periods during these moments would not conform to the established guidelines for insurance coverage.