Raising a child with autism comes with unique challenges—and unique joys. For military families in Savannah, Georgia, those challenges can be even more complex due to frequent relocations, deployments, and the demands 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 throughout the Savannah area.
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 right here in the Savannah community.
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 in Savannah who may experience frequent changes in routine or duty station.
The Importance of ABA Therapy for Military Families in Savannah
Children in military families often deal with more transitions than their civilian peers—new schools, new neighborhoods, and sometimes a parent deployed overseas. In a military hub like Savannah, these transitions are a common part of life. For children with autism, who typically thrive on consistency and routine, these changes can be especially difficult.
ABA therapy provides much-needed structure, continuity, and support during these transitions. However, access to ABA therapy can be challenging due to cost, location, and provider availability—which is where TRICARE makes a meaningful difference for Savannah-area military families.
TRICARE and the 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 supporting military families, including those stationed in and around Savannah, GA.
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 Georgia and the U.S.: Whether a family is stationed in Savannah or preparing for a future move, TRICARE helps ensure access to qualified ABA providers, supporting continuity of care.
- No Primary Care Referral Required: Families can access ABA services without waiting for a referral from a primary care provider, allowing children in Savannah to begin therapy sooner.
- Parental Involvement: TRICARE emphasizes parent participation through training and hands-on involvement, helping families reinforce skills at home and in the community.
- Affordable Care: For most families enrolled in TRICARE Prime or Select, ABA services are fully covered or require minimal cost sharing, making therapy more accessible for military families in the Savannah area.
How to Access ABA Therapy Through TRICARE in Savannah, GA
Navigating healthcare can be overwhelming—especially while balancing military responsibilities. Able Kids helps Savannah-area families navigate the TRICARE process from start to finish:
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)
Military families in Savannah should ensure their child is enrolled in the Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP), which supports families with special medical or educational needs.
Request Authorization for ABA Services
After diagnosis, families submit a request for ABA services through their regional TRICARE contractor. This process typically includes a referral to a BCBA who completes an initial assessment.
Begin ABA Therapy
Once authorized, families can begin ABA therapy with a TRICARE-approved provider in Savannah. At Able Kids, we collaborate closely with families to schedule sessions, monitor progress, and adjust treatment plans as needed.
How Able Kids Supports TRICARE Families in Savannah
At Able Kids, we understand the unique needs of military families in Savannah, GA. Our team has extensive experience working with TRICARE and the Autism Care Demonstration program, and we’re committed to making ABA therapy accessible and stress-free.
Here’s how we support our Savannah military families:
- Seamless Onboarding: Assistance with documentation, authorizations, and renewals
- Flexible Scheduling: Options designed to accommodate the demands of military life
- Continuity of Care: Support during relocations to help minimize therapy disruptions
- Family-Centered Care: Ongoing parent involvement to reinforce progress beyond sessions
Success Stories That Inspire
We’ve seen many military families in Savannah experience meaningful progress through ABA therapy—from children developing communication skills to gaining independence in daily activities and succeeding in school. With TRICARE’s support, these outcomes are possible for families throughout the Savannah military community.
A Final Word
Military families in Savannah already give so much to our country. They deserve access to high-quality, personalized care for their children. Thanks to TRICARE’s Autism Care Demonstration and the dedication of providers like Able Kids, families don’t have to choose between military service and supporting their child’s development.
If you’re a military family in Savannah, GA looking for ABA therapy, we’re here to help. Contact Able Kids today to learn more about how we can support your child’s growth and success.
At Able Kids, we’re proud to be a TRICARE-authorized provider, offering compassionate, effective ABA therapy to children with autism in Savannah and beyond. Let us walk with your family every step of the way, because every child deserves the chance to thrive.