Dear AFSPA Member, 

This summer, we are focusing on health and inclusivity. As many of us enjoy longer days and warmer weather, it reminds us of the importance of choosing health and prioritizing our well-being. Whether it’s honoring Men’s Health Month or celebrating Pride Month, our goal remains unchanged—to provide unparalleled service and healthcare to all. With a variety of customized programs and resources designed to meet the specific health needs of men and the LGBTQ+ community, you can be confident that we are fully dedicated to meeting your healthcare needs. 

Men’s Health Month 

I’ve got some bad news: all indications are that men do not excel at taking care of our physical or mental health.  Research shows that men are less likely than women to keep up with regular checkups, but catching health issues early can make a huge difference in their well-being and longevity. During this Men’s Health Month and with Father’s Day on the horizon, we can do better – choose health for ourselves and those we care about. As a valued member of the Foreign Service Benefit Plan (FSBP), you have access to our wellness reward program. You can earn wellness rewards by completing a health risk assessment, an annual physical and biometric screening, and taking other healthy actions like getting the flu shot, undergoing a colorectal cancer screening, and tracking physical activity. These programs are incredible opportunities to boost your health and well-being. Let’s take steps towards a healthier and happier future together! 

Pride Month  

June is Pride Month. At AFSPA, we proudly support the LGBTQ+ community and strive for the inclusion and acceptance of all. Members enrolled in the FSBP have access to programs and benefits designed to meet the mental and health needs of our LGBTQ+ community. Learn more about our mental wellness programs and the benefits of gender-affirming surgery and hormone therapy. Also, please remember that pre-certification or prior approval is required for gender-affirming surgery even when services are provided outside the U.S.  

Pay your AIP Premiums Online 

With PCS season on the horizon for many, you may be looking at your options for coverage beyond health insurance. Please don’t forget that AFSPA offers a variety of programs including Dental. Life, Disability, and Critical Illness insurance options through our Ancillary Insurance Programs (AIP). We also offer the convenience of paying your premiums using a credit/debit card. This eliminates the need to mail in your check payments. This feature is available in the AFSPA Member Portal. 

Lastly, stay connected with all things AFSPA through our website news, blogs, newsletters, podcasts, and social media channels. We cover a ton of interesting topics on all platforms, including last month’s focus on mental health. This month, we’ll have podcast discussions about LGBTQ+ Pride in Foreign Affairs agencies and how to talk to your children and teens who are exploring and developing their identities, so stay tuned! Lastly, join us on June 27th at 11:00 ET at youtube.com/afspacares for AFSPA Live, our live broadcast Q&A session where we will answer your questions on benefits related to gender affirming care.  

I hope you and your family continue to enjoy a safe and healthy summer season. As always, thank you for your trust and for giving us the opportunity to serve you. 

To Choosing Your Health, 

Kyle Longton, CAE, REBC

AFSPA, CEO