The only way that this could be altered is if the employer modifies the enrollment terms with the insurance provider. This can only be done at open enrollment, which is the annual renewal of the Small Business plan. The waiting period is decided by the employer during this period of time, or at first enrollment, and must then be adhered to and applied to all employees – without eception. You can consider a short-term health insurance policy if you need coverage prior to your group eligibility date. Short-term health plans will not cover pre-eisting medical conditions. But, in all likelihood, your new group coverage will also impose a waiting period on any pre-eisting medical conditions unless you have had prior health insurance coverage. - October 16, 2009 @ 10:02am