Raising a child with autism comes with unique challenges—and unique joys. For military families, those challenges can be even more complex due to frequent relocations, deployments, and the stress of military life. Fortunately, TRICARE, the health care program for uniformed service members and their families, plays a pivotal role in making Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy accessible to military families across the country. At Able Kids, we’re proud to partner with TRICARE and serve those who serve our country by providing high-quality ABA therapy tailored to each child’s needs.
What is ABA Therapy?
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy is an evidence-based approach to improving the lives of individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). It focuses on understanding and improving behaviors by applying principles of learning and motivation. ABA can help children with autism develop essential life skills, improve communication, enhance social interactions, and reduce challenging behaviors.
ABA therapy is highly individualized, meaning each child receives a treatment plan that aligns with their specific strengths, challenges, and developmental goals. This kind of personalized care is especially valuable for military families who may face frequent changes in environment and routine.
The Importance of ABA Therapy for Military Families
Children in military families often deal with more transitions than their civilian peers—new schools, new cities, and sometimes, a parent deployed overseas. These changes can be especially difficult for children with autism, who typically thrive on consistency and routine. ABA therapy provides much-needed structure, continuity, and support during these transitions.
However, access to ABA therapy can be difficult for many families due to cost, location, and availability of services. That’s where TRICARE comes in.
TRICARE and Autism Care Demonstration (ACD)
TRICARE is committed to ensuring military families have access to high-quality care, including ABA therapy. Under the Autism Care Demonstration (ACD), TRICARE covers ABA services for eligible beneficiaries diagnosed with ASD. This initiative reflects the Department of Defense’s ongoing commitment to support military families with children on the autism spectrum.
Key Features of TRICARE’s ABA Coverage:
- Comprehensive Coverage: TRICARE covers a range of ABA services, including assessments, one-on-one therapy, parent training, and behavior technician support under the supervision of a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA).
- Access Across the U.S.: Regardless of where a military family is stationed, TRICARE works to provide access to qualified ABA providers. This is especially helpful for families who relocate frequently, as it allows them to maintain continuity of care.
- No Referrals Needed from Primary Care Providers: Families can access ABA services without waiting for a referral from a primary care provider, streamlining the process and allowing children to begin therapy sooner.
- Parental Involvement: TRICARE emphasizes the role of parents in the therapy process. Through parent training and involvement, caregivers are equipped with tools to reinforce positive behaviors and support their child’s progress at home and in daily life.
- Cost Sharing: For most families enrolled in TRICARE Prime or Select, ABA services are either fully covered or have minimal cost sharing, depending on the beneficiary’s status and plan. This makes ABA therapy more affordable for families who might otherwise be burdened by high out-of-pocket costs.
How to Access ABA Therapy Through TRICARE
Navigating the healthcare system can be overwhelming—especially when juggling the responsibilities of military life. That’s why Able Kids is here to help guide families every step of the way. Here’s how military families can access ABA therapy through TRICARE:
- Get an Official Diagnosis
To qualify for ABA therapy under TRICARE, a child must have a diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder from a TRICARE-authorized provider such as a developmental pediatrician, neurologist, or psychologist.
- Enroll in the Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP)
Service members must ensure that their child is enrolled in the EFMP, a program designed to support military families with special medical or educational needs.
- Request an Authorization for ABA Services
Once the diagnosis is in place, families can submit a request for ABA services through their regional TRICARE contractor (such as Humana Military or Health Net Federal Services). This step typically includes a referral to a BCBA who will conduct an initial assessment.
- Start ABA Therapy
Once the authorization is approved, families can begin ABA therapy with a TRICARE-authorized provider. At Able Kids, we work closely with families to schedule sessions, track progress, and adjust treatment plans as needed to ensure the best possible outcomes for each child.
How Able Kids Supports TRICARE Families
At Able Kids, we understand the unique needs of military families. Our team is experienced in working with TRICARE and the Autism Care Demonstration program, and we’re passionate about making the process as smooth and supportive as possible.
Here’s how we go the extra mile for our military families:
- Seamless Onboarding: We help families understand the documentation and steps needed to begin therapy, and we assist with TRICARE authorizations and renewals.
- Flexible Scheduling: We know military life can be unpredictable, so we offer flexible scheduling options to accommodate your family’s needs.
- Continuity of Care: If your family moves to a new duty station, we help coordinate the transfer of services so your child’s therapy can continue without interruption.
- Family-Centered Approach: We involve parents and caregivers in every step of the therapy process to ensure skills learned during sessions carry over into everyday life.
Success Stories That Inspire
Over the years, we’ve seen countless military families thrive with the support of ABA therapy. From nonverbal children learning to communicate, to kids mastering daily living skills and excelling in school—ABA therapy can be life-changing. And with TRICARE’s support, these success stories are made possible for families across the military community.
A Final Word
Military families already give so much to our country. They deserve access to the very best care for their children, including high-quality, personalized ABA therapy. Thanks to TRICARE’s Autism Care Demonstration and the dedication of providers like Able Kids, families don’t have to choose between serving their country and supporting their child’s development.
If you’re a military family looking for ABA services, we’re here to help. Contact us today to learn more about how we can support your child’s growth, development, and happiness—no matter where your military journey takes you.
At Able Kids, we’re proud to be a TRICARE-authorized provider, offering compassionate, effective ABA therapy to children with autism across the country. Let us walk with you on this journey—because every child deserves the chance to thrive.
