Language desk / reviewed term
What does Waiting Period mean?
A period that must pass before specified coverage or benefits begin.
Illustration — not a plan price
Check the effective-date and waiting-period provisions before assuming a service is covered.
The actual plan document controls. Verify its definitions, network, exclusions, dates, and amounts before relying on the illustration.
Definitions here are never for sale — no plan is recommended on a comprehension page.
Source: HealthCare.gov — Glossary · Verified 2026-08-11 · Reviewed by the MedicalRecords.com editorial team · Last reviewed August 11, 2026