A health insurance waiting period refers to the amount of time after coverage starts that a policy holder must wait for some or all of his medical expenses to be covered. Almost all policies require new clients to wait before they are entitled to receive benefits. Because this period of time can range from one to six months, health insurance planning must consider this temporary lapse in coverage.

For new employees joining group plans, waiting times are typically three months long. This waiting period exists to ensure that the new employee will remain long enough at the job, thereby making it worthwhile for the employer and insurance company to assume the expense of the employee's medical coverage. If possible, new employee health insurance planning should include maintain previous coverage for as long as possible. Individual health insurance policy holders will need to schedule the cancellation of their previous policy at the same time as the ending of the waiting period.

Another way to prepare for a waiting time is purchasing a short term policy. Short term policies may only last for six months. Some states offer individuals short-term policies, but sometimes these policies are only sold by insurance companies. Many times, short term policies only cover emergency medical treatment and prescription medicine and can have quite high premiums. Policies with more coverage are offered, but usually have higher premiums.

Planning for a health insurance waiting period may also require individuals to see doctors and fill prescriptions prior to the period beginning. Individuals should consult their schedule to determine whether any treatments, checkups or medications will need to be obtained during the time when they will not have coverage. If so, they should next determine whether they are able to obtain these needed services and medications before their policy ends.

Individuals should also inquire into the extent of prohibited claims. Some waiting periods prevent an individual from making any insurance claims, while others are less strict and permit small claims. The definition of small claims differs for each health insurance provider, and may either be a specific amount of money or a type of service, such as a visit to a general practitioner. Being able to file some claims may make it unnecessary to purchase a short-term policy.

A health insurance waiting period can leave individuals without coverage for several months. Preparing for this time may reduce the likelihood of paying for treatments or medications out of pocket. When planning for the health insurance waiting period, policy holders should anticipate its arrival by determining whether anything is covered, obtaining necessary medications or treatments prior to the start of the waiting period or consider purchasing a short term policy.