Greetings AFSPA Family,

We welcome June and the summer season with some exciting plan additions, ways to stay connected and tips about making the most of Men’s Health Month. Keep ready for all the updates!

AFSPA Talks Podcast: June Topic Discussions

While I am grateful for those who read my monthly CEO Message, it is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the wealth of resources we strive to provide. Last month, we launched the AFSPA Talks podcast. Each episode highlights a different wellness topic through an in-depth conversation with a subject matter expert. June’s lineup will feature discussions on LGBTQ+ Youth Issues, Dental Health and Critical Illness Insurance. Keep an eye on our social media channels for additional details and previews.

If you have not already, subscribe to the podcast and listen on your streaming platform of choice by searching “AFSPA Talks.”

AFSPA Critical Illness Plan Starts July 1

Men’s Health Month

Men’s Health Month is celebrated each June, with Men’s Health Week taking place during the week leading up to and including Father’s Day. However, it is a fact that men are far less likely than women to go to the doctor for regular checkups. The campaign seeks to heighten awareness of preventable health problems in men and boys and encourages early detection and treatment. Wellness visits are key to maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

The Foreign Service Benefit Plan (FSBP) provides coverage for routine physical exams, including colorectal and prostate cancer screenings. By participating in the Simple Steps to Living Well Together program, you can also earn wellness incentives to boot – what’s not to like?

Opt-In to Receive Rx Text Notifications

Members now can opt-in to text notifications from Express Scripts. This new capability provides yet another way to stay informed about:

• Prescription and order status
• Saving opportunities
• Benefit and safety alerts

To opt-in, log into the Express Scripts Online Portal and choose texting as a communication preference. Once opted in, members will receive a one-way information text with a link to the website to review opportunities.

FSAFEDS Flexibility 

In addition to the recent FSAFEDS flexibility updates, OPM has announced another important program change to provide more flexibility when using your account. Some of the changes include:

• HCFSA and LEX HCFSA – participants will be permitted to carryover unused funds remaining in their accounts as of the end of PY2020 for use in PY2021 (i.e., the carryover amount will not be subject to the current $550 cap).
• DCFSA- the annual contribution limit in 2021 only is $10,500 (for single or married filing jointly) and $5,250 (for married filing separately).
• There is a 30-day Special Enrollment Period (SEP) from June 1 to June 30, 2021 for HCFSA and DCFSA participants. During this time, participants will be allowed a one-time opportunity to make a change to their annual election amount.

For more information, go to fsafeds.com or view the CAA Quick Reference Guide.

As we approach the halfway point of the year, I want to thank you, our loyal members, for your continued trust throughout an unconventional 2021. No matter the circumstances, the AFSPA family continues working hard to ensure your needs are met.

And I would like to wish the fathers and father figures an early Happy Father’s Day. AFSPA is happy to help you invest in your greatest gift to yourself: your health.

To Your Health,

Paula S. Jakub, RHU
CEO, AFSPA
Executive Director, Senior Living Foundation