After submitting written proof of loss, how many days must an insured wait before taking legal action against a health insurer?

In Maryland, after submitting written proof of loss, the insured must wait 60 days before taking legal action against a health insurer. This 60-day period provides the insurer with a reasonable amount of time to review the submitted claim, assess the validity of the proof of loss, and make a decision regarding payment. It is essential for both parties to have a clear opportunity to resolve any disputes or misunderstandings that may arise before escalating the matter to the courts.

Understanding the rationale behind this waiting period is important: it encourages resolution of claims within the insurance framework, potentially avoiding unnecessary litigation and associated costs for both the insured and the insurer. This requirement reflects a balance between protecting the rights of the insured to seek compensation for losses and allowing insurers adequate time to handle claims appropriately.

While other durations such as 30, 45, or 90 days might seem reasonable at first, the law specifically stipulates 60 days as the standard timeframe in Maryland for this context, underscoring its significance in the claims process.