What is the minimum waiting period for a pre-existing condition exclusion in Colorado?

In Colorado, the law stipulates that health insurance policies can impose a maximum waiting period of 12 months for pre-existing condition exclusions. This means that if an applicant has a medical condition that was diagnosed or treated before applying for insurance, the insurer can deny coverage for that specific condition for up to 12 months from the start date of the policy.

This regulation aligns with broader consumer protection laws aimed at ensuring that individuals can access necessary health care without being unduly penalized for prior health issues. A waiting period beyond 12 months would not comply with Colorado law, providing a clear guideline for both insurers and policyholders regarding acceptable practices related to pre-existing conditions. This helps to foster a more equitable healthcare environment.