Your coverage can usually start within one week's time, if you apply electronically.
Entering your application online is available with several health insurance companies. You can request to have your coverage start up to 90 days in the future, however, most of the time, we shoot for about 30 days.
We have to allow for the time for the underwriters to look at your medical history. In some cases, a paramed will be sent your your home or business. They will draw blood, weigh you, measure your height and listen to your heart. This is a "free physical", and if you are "chosen" for one, don't worry, it isn't bad.
There may also be the time it takes for a medical doctor or clinic to transmit your medical records to the health insurance company. Again, this may not be a problem depending on the company involved. Usually, though, if there is a delay, it is because the medical records were not sent from your physician's office in a timely manner.
So, depending on the company, you could be insured the next day, in the case of shor-term medical and in as short a time as one week if all goes perfectly.
Almost always, you will be covered faster if the application is done online.
You can start by getting quotes.
Then, compare the different plans and ask questions.
Next, apply online!
