Does Tricare Cover ABA Therapy?

Reviewed by:
Hannah Andreasen
M.Ed BCBA

March 27, 2022

Yes, Tricare does cover ABA therapy through its autism care demonstration.

Applied Behavior Analysis is a therapy to help individuals improve communication, social, and functional living skills. It also helps to modify maladaptive behaviors. Tricare covers this therapy for members with Autism Spectrum Disorder through its Tricare Comprehensive Autism Care Demonstration.

What services are covered?

  • Initial assessments and reassessments to evaluate the client’s skill sets/deficits and behaviors
  • Development of individualized treatment plan by a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA)
  • One-on-one intensive ABA services.
  • Parent and caregiver training for consistency and generalization
  • Modifications and updates to the treatment plan based on the client’s progress

How to be eligible for Tricare ABA coverage?

Tricare covers ABA therapy if:

  1. Your child is diagnosed with autism by an approved provider (MD, psychologist, psychiatrist).
  2. You must have a referral to the Tricare Autism Care Demonstration. This must be renewed every 2 years.
  3. You have pre-authorization for all ABA services. This authorization is only valid for six months, after which you need to renew it. This will come from your MD, psychologist or psychiatrist.

If you are an active-duty personnel, you must also be enrolled in the Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP) and the Extended Care Health Option (ECHO) to qualify for the ABA services. 

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