Dear AFSPA Member:
We have begun receiving a number of questions from our members about how changes within the Federal government may affect programs and benefits offered by AFSPA. This message will provide answers to some of those questions and concerns as well as additional information that may be useful to you. The information is current as of the date and time it is posted.
My first recommendation to all AFSPA members is to make sure that your contact information is updated, especially your email address. You can update your information through the AFSPA Member Portal. I suggest that members use a personal, non-government email address with us for continued receipt of messages and access. I also recommend that you check your mailing address with Express Scripts if you regularly receive prescription drugs through the mail. Ensure that the delivery address is correct before any shipment is sent.
To date, there have been no changes in benefits under the Foreign Service Benefit Plan (FSBP) for the 2025 Plan Year. Benefits are as stated in the official Plan Brochure. If the Plan receives any guidance from the Office of Personnel Management that results in changes for the current year, we will update the membership as soon as possible.
We understand that many of our members of all ages may be experiencing stress, anxiety, and other physical and mental/emotional health symptoms for which they need care and support. Beyond the coverage for in-person and telemedicine visits outlined in the Brochure, FSBP provides members with a number of self-directed and telehealth programs including:
These programs are available at no cost to members. Additionally, members may wish to seek out care from groups like the Truman Group and others that specialize in behavioral health care for Americans outside the U.S.
Some of our members may be facing an international move sooner than they had originally planned. This can result in a number of needs, such as finding providers in a new location. Whether moving now or not, you will want to ensure that you have an adequate supply of your prescription medications. If you need assistance, please contact AFSPA and ask to speak with a Health Benefits Officer. My dedicated colleagues can help find solutions and address your concerns.
I want to remind all of our members that AFSPA is more than just the Foreign Service Benefit Plan. We offer a number of ancillary insurance programs, most of which are not tied to or dependent on your employment by the federal government. These include:
Premiums for these programs are paid directly to AFSPA or the program sponsor, and you can continue coverage even if you leave government service.
Finally, we have received some questions that are outside our area of expertise. For those who are facing departure from post, you may find information for you and your family from organizations such as the Association of the American Foreign Service Worldwide (AAFSW) and the Foreign Service Youth Foundation. Questions regarding pay, promotion, or federal employment and benefits generally are well outside our purview. You may find answers from your HR or retirement office or your employee organization.
My colleagues and I are proud to serve you and all AFSPA members every day.
To Living and Feeling Better,
Kyle Longton, CAE, REBC
AFSPA, CEO
Headquarters:
1620 L Street NW, Suite 800
Washington, D.C. 20036-5629
Copyright © 2025 All Rights Reserved by AFSPA.
