I would like to call your attention to a personal issue I am having with my insurance coverage. Last Christmas Eve my son Kyle was diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). I could spend a great deal of time describing to you tons of heartwarming stories about him and his progress because there are so many I could not list them all here. However, hearing all of those stories is not what most important for you to know, what is most important is understanding all of the accomplishments that he has made to date is attributable to a strong “Early Intervention” plan.

One of the key components of successful “Early Intervention” is providing any child on the spectrum (my son included) with Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy which is recognized as the leading treatment for autism. Surprisingly I have come to find out that currently there is not any FEHB plan that provides Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) coverage for me as a New Jersey resident. I am not the only Federal Employee that has been confronted with this problem since OPM only “Strongly Encourages” FEHB plans to cover ABA rather than mandate it. This stance provides an inconsistent and unequal benefits policy for Federal Employees because as a result of OPM’s position FEHB plans offer ABA therapy coverage in only 20 states. As a Federal Employee with over ten years of service it is even more disconcerting to learn that my service does not allow for the same medical coverage that is mandated under the Affordable Care Act, Medicaid, Tricare and many other policies available to individuals working in the private sector.

“Every Piece Counts” is an organized effort to close the equality gap as it pertains to individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder especially when it comes to Health Care Coverage. The first action of this movement is to obtain equal Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy for Federal Employees. By signing this petition you are showing your support to have OPM provide more and/or better coverage of ABA Therapy & Health Benefits that are needed for children/individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder.