How is the waiting period defined in health insurance?

The waiting period in health insurance refers to the specific amount of time that must pass before a policyholder's coverage becomes effective after the policy has been issued. During this waiting period, the insured is typically not eligible to receive benefits or coverage for certain claims. This term is essential for understanding how and when policyholder protections begin, particularly in relation to pre-existing conditions or other specific insurance provisions.

It is important to note that a waiting period is not the same as the approval time for a policy application, the duration before a claim can be filed, or the time it takes for claims to be processed. Each of those concepts addresses different facets of the insurance process, while the waiting period specifically pertains to the beginning of coverage. This distinction is crucial for both policyholders and providers in managing expectations regarding when coverage will actually start to take effect.