ABA therapy and Kaiser Permanente

What is covered

Kaiser Permanente generally covers ABA for an autism diagnosis when it is medically necessary and prior authorized. Your plan document decides the specifics.

Kaiser is an integrated system, so care is usually arranged inside Kaiser's own network rather than by finding an outside agency yourself. Outside referrals happen, but they normally start with Kaiser.

Ask them: Will Kaiser provide ABA directly, or authorize an outside agency?

Self-funded or fully insured?

Ask your employer which yours is. Fully insured plans follow your state's autism mandate; self-funded plans follow federal rules instead. Many cover ABA either way.

Before your first session

• Confirm the agency is in network, not just willing to bill.
• Ask how many authorized hours, over what dates.
• Ask your copay per session.
• Get the reauthorization date in writing.