If an employee enrolled in October discovers they are pregnant, can they still start their plan on 12/1?

An employee who discovers they are pregnant after enrolling in a health plan typically retains the ability to start their plan on the designated effective date of 12/1. Health plans are designed to provide coverage for a variety of situations, and pregnancy is generally included under maternity coverage from the onset of the plan. As long as the enrollment is completed in accordance with the plan's timeline and any specific guidelines set by the employer or the insurance provider, the employee can begin their coverage and utilize available benefits related to the pregnancy.

The crucial aspect here is understanding the enrollment window and timing related to the effective date. Since the employee enrolled in October and the plan starts in December, there is no requirement for the condition to influence their ability to initiate the plan on that date. Therefore, starting the plan as scheduled is permissible.