What is the maximum allowable waiting period for group health insurance plans in Colorado?

The maximum allowable waiting period for group health insurance plans in Colorado is 90 days. This regulation is aligned with both state and federal guidelines, ensuring that individuals are not subjected to excessively long waiting periods before they can gain access to health benefits. A waiting period of this duration helps to strike a balance between the needs of employers to manage costs and the rights of employees to receive timely coverage.

Opting for longer waiting periods, such as 120 days, would not be compliant with Colorado state law, as it exceeds the established maximum and could negatively impact employees by delaying their access to necessary health care services. Similarly, shorter waiting periods, such as 30 or 60 days, do not reflect the maximum permissible duration, which is specifically capped at 90 days. This framework facilitates the prompt onset of benefits while also allowing employers sufficient time to manage their plan logistics.