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AFSPA

AFSPA Talks

A Non-Profit , Business and Health & Fitness podcast

#68 in Non-Profit · 🇯🇵 #190 in Non-Profit · 🇺🇸
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About the show

This is an informational and educational podcast by the American Foreign Service Protective Association (AFSPA), featuring Chief Executive Officer, Kyle Longton. AFSPA Talks covers a range of topics across a multitude of categories, from mental wellness, to dental care, to speech and hearing awareness. This podcast is intended for all listeners, not only AFSPA members. This podcast is not intended to give out medical advice, please seek a professional for medical questions. 

Newest episodes

AFSPA Talks 2027 Open Season

21 min

Today marks the start of federal open season, and we're kicking it off with an episode focused on FSBP changes for 2027. If you want to know more about premiums, benefits changes, and more, this is the episode for you.   Join us for other podcasts and live events throughout Open Season. Find all of the opportunities to engage with us at www.afspa.org/events.   Learn more about FSBP in 2027 at www.afspa.org/openseason. View our full open season presentation here.   More information about open season generally is available at:  www.opm.gov www.benefeds.gov - for the FEDVIP options  www.fsafeds.gov - for the FSAFEDS program

AFSPA Talks Care in Germany

38 min

For today's episode, we start with a brief discussion of what contributed to premium increases for 2027. We will, of course, have more information about this during our Open Season webinars, and you can register for those and other upcoming events at www.afspa.org/events.  We are continuing our Overseas October theme. In this episode, we talk about care in Germany. What are the major differences? What should people consider before moving overseas to Germany or elsewhere? To help us answer these questions and more, we turn to one of our direct billing providers in the Ramstein area: Dr. Adam Flynn.   Links: Upcoming Events: www.afspa.org/events Details of the Foreign Service Benefit Plan: www.afspa.org/fsbp FSBP Overseas Direct Billing Partners: https://www.afspa.org/fsbp/overseas/overseas-partners/ Flynn Family Medicine: www.flynnsmedical.com FSBP Open Season: www.afspa.org/openseason

AFSPA Talks MED

31 min

The Bureau of Medical Services within the Department of State plays a unique role in supporting the thousands of members of the Foreign Service and other U.S. government agencies, and their families, serving around the world. These medical professionals provide primary care, arrange medevacs, support ongoing chronic care, and more. Today, AFSPA Talks with three leaders from MED to learn a bit more about their work and to get some advice for audience members who are new to the Foreign Service or considering joining.   Please note: This episode was recorded in late September 2026. All information in this episode is current as of that date.   Links discussed in this episode: Upcoming AFSPA Events: www.afspa.org/events AFSPA's Life Insurance Open Enrollment: www.afspa.org/life Choosing Federal Health Insurance: Selecting Federal Health Insurance  

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All episodes

AFSPA Talks 2027 Open Season

21 min

Today marks the start of federal open season, and we're kicking it off with an episode focused on FSBP changes for 2027. If you want to know more about premiums, benefits changes, and more, this is the episode for you.   Join us for other podcasts and live events throughout Open Season. Find all of the opportunities to engage with us at www.afspa.org/events.   Learn more about FSBP in 2027 at www.afspa.org/openseason. View our full open season presentation here.   More information about open season generally is available at:  www.opm.gov www.benefeds.gov - for the FEDVIP options  www.fsafeds.gov - for the FSAFEDS program

AFSPA Talks Care in Germany

38 min

For today's episode, we start with a brief discussion of what contributed to premium increases for 2027. We will, of course, have more information about this during our Open Season webinars, and you can register for those and other upcoming events at www.afspa.org/events.  We are continuing our Overseas October theme. In this episode, we talk about care in Germany. What are the major differences? What should people consider before moving overseas to Germany or elsewhere? To help us answer these questions and more, we turn to one of our direct billing providers in the Ramstein area: Dr. Adam Flynn.   Links: Upcoming Events: www.afspa.org/events Details of the Foreign Service Benefit Plan: www.afspa.org/fsbp FSBP Overseas Direct Billing Partners: https://www.afspa.org/fsbp/overseas/overseas-partners/ Flynn Family Medicine: www.flynnsmedical.com FSBP Open Season: www.afspa.org/openseason

AFSPA Talks MED

31 min

The Bureau of Medical Services within the Department of State plays a unique role in supporting the thousands of members of the Foreign Service and other U.S. government agencies, and their families, serving around the world. These medical professionals provide primary care, arrange medevacs, support ongoing chronic care, and more. Today, AFSPA Talks with three leaders from MED to learn a bit more about their work and to get some advice for audience members who are new to the Foreign Service or considering joining.   Please note: This episode was recorded in late September 2026. All information in this episode is current as of that date.   Links discussed in this episode: Upcoming AFSPA Events: www.afspa.org/events AFSPA's Life Insurance Open Enrollment: www.afspa.org/life Choosing Federal Health Insurance: Selecting Federal Health Insurance  

AFSPA Talks Senior Living Foundation

28 min

For almost 40 years, the Senior Living Foundation has helped meet the needs of the Foreign Service community. We do this with professionalism and dignity while maintaining our clients' privacy. Today, we'll look at how SLF works, who we can help, and what that help looks like. SLF Social Work Consultant Joan Parrish, MSSW, LGSW, joins us to share her role in the process.    For more information on SLF, please visit www.slfoundation.org. Follow SLF on YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/@seniorlivingfoundation) and Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/seniorlivingfoundation).  To join us for our Next Chapter Conversation on September 23, please visit https://www.youtube.com/live/V7PLC7fdnXc?si=aVA59SQhO4Wc-eO9.   You can submit your questions for the event here: https://forms.cloud.microsoft/r/KNUsfShw0r  To explore other upcoming events from AFSPA and our partners, please visit www.afspa.org/events.

AFSPA Talks Back to School with the Truman Group

33 min

August is a time of change for many. For families with children, it's back-to-school time. For many AFSPA members, it's also PCS season. This can all combine to make for a challenging period. To help us talk through ways to manage these changes, we're talking with Catherine McLean, MSW, LCSW, from the Truman Group. She shares her knowledge as a licensed clinical social worker and her experience as an expat and a counselor to many other expats. To help after the episode ends, she's also shared an infographic available here. Upcoming events: www.afspa.org/events  Truman Group: www.trumangroup.com

AFSPA Talks Hidden AIP Programs

31 min

Many of you know that AFSPA offers more than the Foreign Service Benefit Plan. But did you know that we go beyond traditional insurance? In this episode, AFSPA's Sr. Director for Ancillary Programs walks us through some of the hidden treasures she manages, including travel insurance, members-of-household plans, and professional services partnerships. There's something for everyone at AFSPA.  For more information on AFSPA's ancillary programs, please visit www.afspa.org/aip. 

AFSPA Talks Teladoc Care Options

28 min

In today's episode, we continue our focus on men's health but expand it to care options for everyone. Removing barriers to care makes it easier for everyone to get the support they need, and that's exactly what we discuss today. Members of the Foreign Service Benefit Plan have access to a variety of telehealth and chronic care management options through our partnership with Teladoc Health. Chris Eastburn from Teladoc provides us with an overview of the various programs and how they can help all our members.  For more information on FSBP care options, visit www.afspa.org/fsbp.  To see our upcoming events, visit www.afspa.org/events. Join us for AFSPA Live on June 25. Submit your questions in advance at: https://forms.office.com/r/9FuRJC76sN. Don't miss open enrollment in AFSPA's disability insurance program through June 30. Learn more and enroll at www.afspa.org/aip/disability.

AFSPA Talks Men's Health

43 min

Statistically speaking, men are less likely to seek care, both for prevention and treatment. This applies to physical health and mental/behavioral health. In recent years, this discrepancy has led to a widening gap in life expectancy between men and women. We discussed these differences, the importance of care for men, and even dived into some trends with Dr. Kelly Ruel, Sr. Medical Director for Aetna/CVS Health.    To learn more about topics discussed in today's episode, please visit: AFSPA Events - https://www.afspa.org/events FSBP Preventive Care, Virtual Care, and Wellness Programs - https://www.afspa.org/fsbp/wellness-programs/

AFSPA Talks Maternity Journeys

29 min

National trends indicate that more people are waiting until a bit later in life before considering their options. Some plan months or years in advance before starting the journey, while others make plans quickly when they find out a new addition is on the way. Growing a family looks different for each of us. Last year, more than 700 FSBP members gave birth and grew their families in locations around the world.    For FSBP members at any stage of the fertility, maternity, or parenting journey, they can access support through Maven Clinic. As part of Maternity May, we welcome Dr. Kathleen Green from Maven to talk about their support program and how members can benefit from this free, global offering. You can ask your own questions to Dr. Green during this month's AFSPA Live on May 28 at 11 am ET.    To enroll in Maven Clinic, please visit www.mavenclinic.com/join/FSBP   To learn more about our upcoming programs, please visit www.afspa.org/events.

AFSPA Talks Long Term Disability Insurance

25 min

AFSPA is happy to announce that we recently launched a new long-term disability insurance plan in partnership with Prudential. This new plan offers a variety of ways to customize coverage based on your salary and how long of a benefit period you want. To learn the ins and outs of the new plan, we welcome back Nicole Devlin from Prudential to the program.  To learn more about the new plan, please visit www.afspa.org/aip/disability.  To see all of our upcoming events, please visit www.afspa.org/events.

AFSPA Talks FSBP Claims

37 min

We continue All about AFSPA April with a deep dive into claims. Last year, the Foreign Service Benefit Plan processed more than 2.28 million claims from members all around the world. These included more than half a million overseas claims and thousands of massage therapy claims. If you've ever wondered how we do it, this episode is for you. Kelli Rath from Aetna walks us through the processes, challenges, and successes of processing claims from our unique, worldwide membership.   For more information on claims, please visit www.afspa.org/fsbp/claims.  For all of AFSPA's upcoming events, visit www.afspa.org/events.

AFSPA Talks Foreign Service Benefit Plan

23 min

Welcome to All About AFSPA April! In today's episode, we are discussing the Foreign Service Benefit Plan. With AFSPA's Sr. Director of Health Operations, Igor Cherevko, we visit some of the most frequently asked questions and common topics that our Health Benefits Officers encounter.  Drug Pricing Tool: https://www.express-scripts.com/frontend/commercial-open-enrollment/afspaforeignservicebenefitplan/plans/68c2cfb07c0b92001c878c32/apps/medication#/ Lyra Health: Call 1-877-505-7147 or visit https://www.lyrahealth.com/.  Truman Group: https://trumangroup.com/  For more information on FSBP, visit www.afspa.org/fsbp.  

AFSPA Talks Medicare Advantage

32 min

To close out Medicare March, we're taking some time to look at the most popular Medicare program in the country: Medicare Advantage Plans (MAPs). Dr. Ali Khan, Chief Medical Officer, Medicare at Aetna, joins us to talk about the plans in general and dive into the specifics of the FSBP - Aetna Medicare Advantage Plan. Join us for a great conversation about the ins and outs of MAPs, how FSBP members can take advantage of savings and support opportunities, and for some general tips on care as we all age.   For more information on the FSBP - Aetna Medicare Advantage Plan, please visit www.fsbphealth.com/retiree.  For more on how FSBP works with Medicare generally and other options available, please visit https://www.afspa.org/fsbp-and-medicare/.  To learn more about our upcoming events, go to www.afspa.org/events.

AFSPA Talks Medicare PDP

19 min

In 2026, FSBP changed its High Option prescription drug benefits. The result: many people are paying more out of pocket for their drugs. For those enrolled in Medicare Part A and/or Part B,  there is an option available to save money: the FSBP-Express Scripts Medicare Prescription Drug Plan (PDP). We revisit this program in today's episode with Tavares Johnson from Evernorth/Express Scripts.  Tavares began his career at Express Scripts in 2008 as a Patient Care Advocate, where he gained valuable experience supporting members, pharmacists, and physicians. His dedication and problem-solving skills led to a promotion to Resolution Team Lead, a role in which he partnered closely with account management and clients to resolve complex member issues. In 2013, Tavares was promoted to Senior Account Manager, where he began working with Medicare Part D clients and deepened his expertise in Medicare products and services. His comprehensive understanding of both member and client needs has been instrumental in driving successful outcomes. In 2024, Tavares was promoted to Senior Manager on the EGWP Market Strategy team, where he leads strategic initiatives to support Employer Group Retiree plans. His leadership and industry insight continue to make a meaningful impact across the organization. To learn more about the PDP and opt in to the program, please visit www.afspa.org/pdp.  To review PDP drug pricing, please visit: https://www.express-scripts.com/frontend/medicare-open-enrollment/fsbp.  To review High Option drug pricing, please visit: www.express-scripts.com/fsbp  Join us for AFSPA Live on March 26 at 11 am. You can submit your questions in advance, here: https://forms.office.com/r/wM8t8HqvDM Register for other upcoming events at www.afspa.org/events.

AFSPA Talks Medicare and the FEHB in 2026

45 min

In this podcast episode,  AFSPA CEO Kyle Longton provides a comprehensive overview of how Medicare and the Federal Employee Health Benefits (FEHB) program work together. Learn about each part of Medicare - A, B, C, and D - and what factors you should consider when deciding whether to enroll in Part B.   Please note: this presentation addresses only how Medicare and FEHB work together. It is not intended for audiences beyond those with FEHB coverage. The information is accurate as of March 13, 2026.   For information on Part B premiums and Part D premiums/IRMAA amounts, please visit: https://www.medicare.gov/Pubs/pdf/115....  To learn more about signing up for Medicare, visit: https://www.ssa.gov/medicare/sign-up. To learn more about the Foreign Service Benefit Plan and Medicare, visit: https://www.afspa.org/fsbp-and-medicare/ Check out our events page here: www.afspa.org/events/. 

AFSPA Talks Retire Federal

32 min

The last year has been marked by record numbers of federal employees retiring from service. Making the decision to retire is never simple, and the considerations for federal employees are unique from any other group. Luckily, there are uniquely qualified advisors available, including our guest for this episode: Tammy Flanagan. She joins us to talk about changes to the retirement process and how she and her colleagues at Retire Federal can help assess retirement readiness.   Learn more about Tammy Flanagan's work:  Retirement Planning column for Government Executive: https://www.govexec.com/topic/retirement-planning/ Work on Federal News Network: https://federalnewsnetwork.com/tag/tammy-flanagan/ Retire Federal: https://www.retirefederal.com/ Join us for AFSPA's Annual Meeting: https://events.zoom.us/ev/ApdnelInxPpOrUWwrwRtWQHK6tRGvr-131W5CrN1-ZmfJrNFNBRT~AoT4rcYlVLw2IItcnh0s9MRHkhw0RCH8bwljb9hCwAKV7cePVcMYvKyCRg Submit questions for AFSPA Live: https://forms.office.com/r/ePv8DKMtvd See more upcoming AFSPA events: www.afspa.org/events 

AFSPA Talks GEBA Wealth Management

27 min

It's Financial Wellness February at AFSPA, and we're excited to highlight the expertise available from some of our partners. Federal employees' retirement and insurance needs are unique from those in the private sector, and that means they need advisors with unique expertise. Our partners at GEBA and GEBA Wealth Management offer just that. To tell us about their services, we're happy to welcome GEBA President and CEO Greg Klingler, MSM, CP, ChFEBC, CPFA. He will also be our guest on AFSPA Live at 11 am on Thursday, February 26.  Learn more about the service available for AFSPA members at www.GEBA.com/afspa.  Submit your questions for AFSPA Live here.  See other upcoming events at www.afspa.org/events.  Register for our Annual Meeting on March 6 here.

AFPSA Talks Careington Discount Program

31 min

Today, we kick off Ancillary January with a focus on our combined dental and vision discount program offered in partnership with Careington. Valerie DeBruin joins us to discuss how this program differs from insurance, both in the services provided and the cost to the member. Stay tuned to the end for a mention of the hearing discount program, too.  For more information on all of our ancillary programs, please visit www.afspa.org/aip.  For more on the discount programs discussed in today's episode, please visit www.careington.com/co/afspa  AFSPA has a number of events planned for the weeks and months ahead. Learn more and register at www.afspa.org/events. 

AFSPA Talks Lyra Health

21 min

Accessing mental health care can be a challenge. Outside the U.S., that challenge can at times be insurmountable. FSBP offers a program to help members around the world access counselors and other support to meet their behavioral, mental, and emotional health needs. Lyra Health is available to FSBP members outside the U.S. for counseling at no cost. Today, Karen Munson joins us to discuss this program and how members can access it.  Visit https://fsbp.lyrahealth.com/ to register and begin accessing care. FSBP members can also call +44 33 00 241 021 for immediate assistance. You can download the Lyra Health app through the App Store or the Google Play Store. If you receive a request to enter the organization sponsoring your access to Lyra, please enter "FSBP".  For more information on our various programs, please visit our video library at www.youtube.com/afspacares.  Join us for future events at www.afspa.org/events.

AFSPA Talks GLP-1 Requirements

34 min

In today's episode, we discuss the updated requirements for GLP-1s for the Foreign Service Benefit Plan. Grace Silverio from Teladoc Health breaks down the new Advanced Weight Management Program required for FSBP members taking GLP-1s for weight loss in the U.S.  It's Open Season! If you're looking for more information on the FSBP's premiums, plan changes, and more, click here.  If you would like to register for an Open Season webinar, click here. Join us for AFSPA Live, a live Q&A session, on 11/20 @ 11 AM ET. We will be discussing the 2026 FSBP Open Season. If you would like to submit a question in advance, you can do so by filling out this form: https://forms.office.com/r/RApuq334NE. You can watch live on our YouTube channel @afspacares.  Register for the Virtual Benefits Fair: https://vshow.on24.com/vshow/FVBF25/registration/24363 

AFSPA Talks Prescription Drug Coverage in 2026

27 min

Today, AFSPA Talks Prescription Drug Coverage in 2026. For the first time in a decade, we're making changes to the cost shares for prescription drugs. Join us today to talk through the changes and understand what your costs will be in 2026. See the changes at www.afspa.org/openseason. Price your drugs at www.express-scripts.com/fsbp, and be sure to select 2026.  For members who have opted in to the FSBP-Express Scripts Medicare Prescription Drug Plan, or PDP, there will be NO CHANGE to cost sharing. This means that most drugs will cost members less under the PDP. Combine these savings with a wider network of pharmacies and greater flexibility for where you can obtain your maintenance drugs, and this may be the year for members who have Medicare A and/or B to opt in to the PDP. See www.afspa.org/pdp for more details and a pricing tool.  You may wish to watch this episode for the slides we share to show the changes. Find the video at www.youtube.com/afspacares.  Join us for AFSPA Live, a live Q&A session, on 11/20 @ 11 AM ET. We will be discussing the 2026 FSBP Open Season. If you would like to submit a question in advance, you can do so by filling out this form: https://forms.office.com/r/RApuq334NE. You can watch live on our YouTube channel @afspacares.  Register for the Virtual Benefits Fair: https://vshow.on24.com/vshow/FVBF25/registration/24363  Register for an Open Season Webinar: www.afspa.org/events

AFSPA Talks 2026 Open Season

29 min

November has begun, and that means that the start of open season is only a week away. We've got your preview of open season changes in today's episode. Be sure to follow us for further updates, as we'll be diving deeper into some of the benefit changes in the weeks ahead.  Join us for a live event to learn more about our open season changes. See your options at: www.afspa.org/events.   Our discussion today is full of references, so here are some of the links we mentioned:  FSBP Open Season Information: www.afspa.org/openseason FSBP Drug Pricing Tool through Express Scripts: www.express-scripts.com/fsbp (Be sure to select the right year for proper pricing.)Federal Employee Dental and Vision Insurance Program (FEDVIP): www.benefeds.com FSAFeds: www.fsafeds.com Join us for AFSPA Live, a live Q&A session, on 11/20 @ 11 AM ET. We will be discussing the 2026 FSBP Open Season. If you would like to submit a question in advance, you can do so by filling out this form: https://forms.office.com/r/RApuq334NE. You can watch live on our YouTube channel @afspacares.  Register for the Virtual Benefits Fair: https://vshow.on24.com/vshow/FVBF25/registration/24363 

AFSPA Talks Menopause

20 min

October is Menopause Awareness Month. In this week's episode, we discuss the symptoms of Menopause and how it can affect daily life for women. We are joined by Shardae Jackson, Senior Manager of Client Success at Maven Clinic. Maven Clinic has a Menopause and Midlife Health program that focuses on treatment for menopause stages and symptoms.  To learn more about joining Maven Clinic, please visit this page. Maven Clinic is available free of charge to all FSBP members.  To submit a question for this month's AFSPA Live on Menopause, you can do that here. You can watch AFSPA Live here.  Open Season is coming soon! Be on the lookout for our Open Season webpage. To register for webinars, click here. 

AFSPA Talks Women's Pelvic Health

27 min

Pelvic health issues can emerge in a variety of ways at any age. Often, people experiencing these issues assume that such problems are just a fact of life and do not discuss their concerns or seek treatment. Our goal for today's episode is to break down some of the taboos surrounding pelvic health issues and provide a solution from our partners at Hinge Health. Dr. Bijal Torpani, PT, DPT, joins us to discuss the Women's Pelvic Health program and how virtual physical therapy can benefit patients.  In 2025, Hinge Health is available to members of the Foreign Service Benefit Plan aged 18 and older and located in the United States. We will be expanding the program to some overseas locations in 2026 - more information to come. Visit hingehealth.com/fsbp for more information or to get started today.   Visit www.afspa.org/events to register for upcoming programs from AFSPA.

AFSPA Talks 2ndMD

22 min

Today, we answer the question of what to do when facing a serious diagnosis. Where do you turn and when? What are the next steps? FSBP members in the United States can access an expert second opinion program from 2ndMD. Nurse Kim Rebec joins us to talk about the ins and outs of this service, which is available at no charge to FSBP members in the U.S.   For more information, visit https://www.2nd.md/ or download the 2ndMD app from the App Store or Google Play.  For more information on upcoming events from AFSPA, please visit www.afspa.org/events.

AFSPA Talks Breastfeeding

29 min

August is Breastfeeding Awareness Month. Mary Rood Cunningham, a Senior Client Success Manager at Maven Clinic, and Dr. Viraj Radia, a pediatrician with Maven Clinic, join us to discuss breastfeeding's benefits, best practices, and obstacles.  To learn more about Maven Clinic and to join at no cost for FSBP Members around the globe, check out www.mavenclinic.com/join/fsbp.  Check out our Events page for free webinars and other events to stay connected with us.  Join us for AFSPA Live to discuss Resetting for the Season: Mental Health and Family Building on Thursday, August 28, at 11 AM ET. You can watch here. If you'd like to submit a question, just ask it here. 

Re-Release of AFSPA Talks Skin Cancer

31 min

For this week's episode of AFSPA Talks, we revisit an episode from July 2023 about Skin Cancer. Now that it is summertime, we know that many of our listeners will be spending time in the sun. Skin cancer is the most common cancer. To help us understand more about skin cancer, we had Leah B. Jacobson, Sr. Medical Director at Aetna join us. You can stay in touch with AFSPA and all we have coming up by visiting www.afspa.org/events or by following up on our social media channels on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and YouTube by searching @afspacares.  Mark your calendars and join us for AFSPA Live on Thursday, 7/31 @ 11 AM ET! AFSPA's COO, Twanisha Johnson, and Greg Klingler, CFP®, CPFA™, ChFEBC℠ from GEBA, will be ready to answer your questions about Financial Wellness During Times of Transition. Here are three ways to ask a question at the AFSPA Live Q&A Session: 1. Send any questions you want to be answered during the show by filling out this form: https://forms.office.com/r/QPzbfGB3aD 2. Leave your question(s) in the comment section of our live broadcast video. 3. Call a toll-free number 1-888-435-0757 to leave a voicemail message with your question(s). In your message, tell us your name, where you’re calling from, and state your question(s).

Re-Release of AFSPA Talks Support for LGBTQ+ Youth

52 min

Happy Pride! For this week's episode, we wanted to share some information that would be helpful to members who have contacted us with questions about care and support for their children who are exploring their identities. We went back into our archive, and we're sharing an episode with Alyssa Clayden, PhD, LICSW, from the Truman Group that we originally published in June 2024.   You can stay in touch with AFSPA and all we have coming up by visiting www.afspa.org/events or by following up on our social media channels: Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and YouTube at @afspacares.    Join us for AFSPA Live at 11 am ET on Thursday, June 26, on Facebook, LinkedIn, or YouTube. 

AFSPA Talks The Truman Group

31 min

May is Mental Health Awareness Month. The recent changes to the federal workforce and the uncertainty that continues for many have resulted in mental health concerns for many with ties to federal employment - employees and family members alike. Stress, anxiety, fear, anger, and worry are all understandable reactions, but you do not have to face these challenges alone. We at AFSPA encourage you to make use of resources that may be available to you through community groups, employee assistance programs, and your health benefits.  In today's episode, we highlight the long-term partnership between the Foreign Service Benefit Plan and the Truman Group. During our interview, Diane Nickeson-Mendheim, MSW, LCSW, describes how ex-pats can access care from the Truman Group for a variety of mental and behavioral health needs.  To learn more about the Truman Group, visit https://trumangroup.com/.  For more on mental wellness programs offered through the Foreign Service Benefit Plan, please visit https://www.afspa.org/fsbp/wellness-programs/manage-specific-conditions/#mental_wellness. 

AFSPA Talks Chronic Care Management

26 min

In this episode of AFSPA Talks, we continue our conversation from Annual Meeting about weight loss, cardiovascular health, and diabetes management. Today's focus is on Chronic Care Management Programs. To tell us more about those programs, we have Grace Silverio from Teladoc Health.  For more information about the Chronic Care Management Programs available to Foreign Service Benefit Plan members at NO COST, click here. If you have questions about these programs, join AFSPA Live, our live Q&A session, on Thursday, April 24, 2025, at 11 AM ET. If you would like to submit a question in advance, fill out this form. 

AFSPA Talks Lifestyle and Condition Coaching

27 min

This month, AFSPA Talks takes a look at some of the support programs available to members of the Foreign Service Benefit Plan. To begin, we'll discuss the Lifestyle and Condition Coaching (LCC) program with Dr. Vivian Ogueli and Leah Perry, RN. They offer details on how to complete a health risk assessment (HRA) and earn $75 in wellness incentives, utilize the LCC offerings to mitigate any health risks, meet your goals, and generally improve your health.    For more information about LCC and other support programs, please visit www.afspa.org/fsbp/wellness.

AFSPA Talks Medicare and the FEHB in 2025

1 hr 5 min

In this podcast episode, AFSPA CEO, Kyle Longton provides a comprehensive overview of how Medicare and the Federal Employee Health Benefits (FEHB) program work together. Learn about each part of Medicare - A, B, C, and D - and what factors you should consider when deciding whether to enroll in Part B.   Please note: this presentation addresses only how Medicare and FEHB work together. It is not intended for audiences beyond those with FEHB coverage. The information is accurate as of March 4, 2025.   For information on Part B premiums and Part D premiums/IRMAA amounts, please visit: https://www.medicare.gov/Pubs/pdf/115.... To learn more about signing up for Medicare, visit: https://www.ssa.gov/medicare/sign-up. To learn more about the Foreign Service Benefit Plan and Medicare, visit: https://www.afspa.org/fsbp-and-medicare/

AFSPA Talks Japan Pilot Program

24 min

Two years ago, access to on-base care for Department of Defense civilians changed, which had a particular impact on those living and working in Japan. Since then, DoD leaders have been working on a program to support the needs of civilian employees in Japan. That program launched at the beginning of this year, and we wanted to know more about how it came about, how it works, and who it helps.  Joining us to walk us through the Japan Health Insurance Enhancement Pilot are: Susan Orsega, Deputy Assitant Secretary of Defense for Health Services Policy and Oversight, Department of Defense  Danielle McCammon, Chief, TRICARE Overseas Program  DoD Civilian employees in Japan can reach the International SOS Government Services call center in the following ways:  Call toll-free in Japan: 0120-303280Call from outside Japan: +81 33560 8185 (not toll-free) International callers can request a "callback" by sending an email to an email to avoid additional charges. For routine, non-urgent requests, it is best to email DODHealthcareSupport@internationalsos.com.  Please include your full name, insurance details, and phone number in the email. Join us on January 30 at 11 am ET for AFSPA Live! You can submit your questions in advance here or join us live on YouTube, Facebook, or LinkedIn.  See our other upcoming events here: www.afspa.org/events Register for the AFSPA Member Annual Meeting here. Links referenced in today's episode: January 2023 episode - AFSPA Talks Care in Japan  October 7, 2024, Press Release from DoD on Pilot: https://www.defense.gov/News/Releases/Release/Article/3927934/dod-announces-health-care-supplement-program-pilot-for-dod-civilian-employees-i/ January 16, 2025 Article from U.S. Forces Japan on Pilot Program: https://www.usfj.mil/Media/Press-Releases/Article-View/Article/4031045/dod-launches-247-health-care-support-for-dod-civilian-employees-in-japan/ AFSPA Overseas Care Details: https://www.afspa.org/fsbp/overseas/ Searchable List of AFSPA Overseas Direct B...

AFSPA Talks Tips for New Members

21 min

With Open Season over and a new year underway, hosts Kyle Longton and Maddie Norton use the first episode of 2025 to provide tips for the 10,000 new FSBP members and the more than 100,000 continuing members. Here are links to the resources they mentioned during this episode:  AFSPA Website: www.afspa.org Online Portals for FSBP Members (including demo videos): https://www.afspa.org/online-member-portals/ FSBP Provider Search Tool: www.afspa.org/fsbp/provider  Teladoc Health (telehealth in the U.S.): https://www.afspa.org/fsbp/wellness-programs/#telehealth-us  vHealth (Worldwide) (telehealth outside the U.S.): https://www.afspa.org/fsbp/wellness-programs/#telehealth-overseas AFSPA Annual Meeting: https://events.zoom.us/ev/Ap2pSvh2nz0z7F5_7HFrAs6bwKbNUGLVGNVLf2PvrJvlxnY-fkp_~Agq7R07nRuUtjQNzMHfAgYQfhknsFMKrig226MqCMLSGs9totE2UdR3hQA  Socials: Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/afspacares Instagram - @afspacares LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/afspa/ AFSPA's other programs: www.afspa.org/aip Other AFSPA Events: www.afspa.org/events  Please join us on January 30 at 11am ET on YouTube, Facebook, or LinkedIn for AFSPA Live! Send your questions here: https://lnkd.in/eK2VsF9u 

AFSPA Talks 2025 Open Season

28 min

It's November, which means Federal Benefits Open Season is almost here. Today, Maddie and Kyle discuss health insurance, dental and vision insurance, and flexible spending account options before diving into changes for the Foreign Service Benefit Plan for 2025.   This is just the start of AFSPA's Open Season work. Please find more information at www.afspa.org/openseason.  Join us for a webinar or other event throughout Open Season. You can find the full list of webinars at www.afspa.org/events.   View our past recordings of podcasts and AFSPA Live events at www.youtube.com/afspacares.  To learn more about the open enrollment period through December 1, 2024, for our Group Enhanced Life (GEL) and Immediate Benefit Plan (IBP) programs, visit www.afspa.org/life. 

AFSPA Talks Life Insurance for Millennials

23 min

September is Life Insurance Awareness Month (LIAM), and we are kicking things off with a focus on millennials. With our guest, Nicole Devlin from Prudential, we discuss the needs of this population and why now might be the best time for them to consider this important part of their financial portfolio.   This episode is just the start of a busy month. Join us for more events, all available at www.afspa.org/events.  What You Should Know About Life Insurance webinar on 9/17 at 8 AM, 1 PM, and 6 PM ET. Register here. Senior Living Foundation's Planning for Change Seminar on 9/24 at 1 PM ET at AFSPA Headquarters. Register here.Prudential Financial Wellness Checkups on 9/24 and 9/25. Register here. AFSPA Live on 9/26 at 11 AM ET about AFSPA Life Insurance Plans. Watch live at youtube.com/afspacares.For more information on AFSPA's life insurance programs, visit www.afspa.org/life.

AFSPA Talks Navigating Back to School

1 hr 12 min

It’s August, and for many families, that means preparing for a return to school. This can be a challenge for kids and parents. Changing routines, decreasing free time, and, for many of our members, new locations can make for bumpy August and September. Our guests today, working from Brightline Health, will provide some strategies for families to ease the return to school for everyone.   Learn more about Brightline Health and sign up for it at www.hellowbrightline.com/fsbp. (Brightline is considered an in-network provider with FSBP. Services are available to FSBP members in the U.S. only. Calendar year deductible and coinsurance apply.) Dr. Kendra Read is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and Vice President of Therapy at Brightline. She received her Ph.D. in clinical psychology from Temple University in Philadelphia, PA. She completed her internship in pediatric psychology at Nemours Hospital for Children and her postdoctoral fellowship at the Stanford University School of Medicine in the Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences Department.  Previously, she served as the Director of the Mood & Anxiety Program and Director of Anxiety Programs at Seattle Children’s Hospital, as well as the Director of Psychotherapy Training at the University of Washington School of Medicine Child Psychiatry Fellowship. Dr. Read specializes in the treatment of youth with anxiety disorders and OCD from a cognitive behavioral therapy perspective. She is highly invested in increasing access to evidence-based behavioral health interventions for youth and their families. Irene Biscante is a National Board Certified Health and Wellness Coach (NBC-HWC) and the Vice President of Coaching at Brightline. She holds a bachelor's degree in Public Health with an emphasis in Health Education and Promotion from Brigham Young University - Idaho and is currently pursuing a graduate degree in Marriage and Family Therapy with a specialization in Child and Adolescent Therapy at Northcentral University. With ove...

AFSPA Talks Overseas Telehealth Services

33 min

In this episode, we talk with John McQuillan from Teladoc Health UK. He walks us through the care and consultation options available to Foreign Service Benefit Plan (FSBP) members outside the U.S. for general medical and mental health needs. He offers some examples that will be familiar to many of our members worldwide.   These benefits are branded as vHealth (Worldwide) in the FSBP Brochure Sections 5(a) and 5(e): https://www.afspa.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/2024_FSBP_Brochure_-RI-72-001_Final_1.8.2024.pdf.    To access the Teladoc Health services outside the U.S. - branded as vHealth under FSBP benefits, download the vHealth (Worldwide) app from the App Store or Google Play Store. You also can visit https://vhealth-teladochealth.com/en. To reach them by phone, call +1-857-256-3784 (U.S.) or +44-20-3499-2851 (UK). 

AFSPA Talks Support for LGBTQ+ Youth

49 min

It's Pride Month, and we're talking with Alyssa Clayden, PhD, LCSW. She first joined us in 2021 to discuss support for LGBTQ+ youth, and we're exploring the same topic in this episode. Our focus is on how parents and other family members and allies can support children and adolescents who are exploring their identities in terms of sexual attraction and gender identity. We take some time to discuss what parents may experience and how this support can be different in the U.S. and overseas.    Alyssa is a provider with The Truman Group - https://trumangroup.com/ - long time partners of AFSPA/FSBP. We appreciate their partnership in providing our members with access to mental health care around the globe and making today's episode possible.    For more information on benefits and programs available to FSBP members, please visit www.afspa.org/fsbp.  Some resources that may be helpful to our listeners: glifaa - LGBTQIA+ pride in foreign affairs agencies - https://glifaa.org/ The Trevor Project - https://www.thetrevorproject.org/ Foreign Service Youth Foundation - LGBT in the Foreign Service - https://www.fsyf.org/LGBT 

AFSPA Talks Mental Health Coaching

27 min

 May is mental health awareness month. Just as many factors can influence our mental health, there are a variety of support programs and treatment options to explore. Today, we welcome Jennifer Pertofsky-Plotnek, LCSW-C, CDCES, NCB-HWC. She is currently the Director of Coaching at Teladoc Health. Jennifer talks us through the differences between counseling and coaching. She provides details on the coaching available to Foreign Service Benefit Plan (FSBP) members at no cost through two Teladoc Health programs: myStrength and chronic care management (formerly Livongo).  Links: FSBP members can access Teladoc's programs, including myStrength and chronic care management and mental health counseling, through www.teladochealth.com or through the Teladoc Health app, available in the App Store and through Google Play.  Other access options include:  FSBP members aged 13 and older can enroll in myStrength at www.mystrength.com, select "Sign-up," and enter the access code "FSBP."  To access the chronic care management programs (formerly known as Livongo), members can visit http://get.livongo.com/FSBP. You can enroll in diabetes management, hypertension management, and/or weight management.  Chronic care management and myStrength are available worldwide.  For more details, please review the 2024 FSBP Brochure at https://www.afspa.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/2024_FSBP_Brochure_-RI-72-001_Final_1.8.2024.pdf. 

AFSPA Talks Medicare PDP FAQs

19 min

In this episode, AFSPA CEO Kyle Longton, CAE, REBC addresses some of the most frequent questions AFSPA has received about the FSBP Express Scripts Medicare Prescription Drug Plan, or PDP. While he touches on some basics of the PDP, you can learn more about the specific PDP benefits from our October 23, 2023 podcast and our November 30, 2023 AFSPA Live (see links below). Kyle will address questions about Medicare during AFSPA Live on March 30, 2024 at 11 ET. If you would like your question to be answered live, submit your question here: https://forms.office.com/r/jPzsTE0TKz   Links:  FSBP Express Scripts Medicare Prescription Drug Plan webpage: www.afspa.org/pdp October 23, 2023, AFSPA Talks PDP: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1756283/13816947  November 30, AFSPA Live on PDP: https://www.youtube.com/live/n-9IAB-c2cY?si=Ej5OuciIfM7tGqxM  Medicare Part D IRMAA Information: https://www.medicare.gov/drug-coverage-part-d/costs-for-medicare-drug-coverage/monthly-premium-for-drug-plans Social Security Administration Contact Page: https://www.ssa.gov/agency/contact/  AFSPA Events: www.afspa.org/events

AFSPA Talks Medicare and the FEHB

50 min

In this episode, AFSPA CEO Kyle Longton provides a comprehensive overview of how Medicare and the Federal Employee Health Benefits (FEHB) program work together. Learn about each part of Medicare - A, B, C, and D - and what factors you should consider when deciding whether to enroll in Part B.  Please note: this presentation addresses only how Medicare and FEHB work together. It is not intended for audiences beyond those with FEHB coverage. The information is accurate as of March 2024.  For information on Part B premiums and Part D premiums/IRMAA amounts, please visit: https://www.medicare.gov/Pubs/pdf/11579-medicare-costs.pdf.  To learn more about signing up for Medicare, visit: https://www.ssa.gov/medicare/sign-up. 

AFSPA Talks Freedom Fertility Pharmacy

26 min

With this episode, we continue our February focus on fertility. For some people receiving treatment for diagnoses of infertility, prescription drugs can account for half the costs of their treatment. Ensuring on-time delivery of the drugs, understanding how to administer them, and having a resource for understanding the side effects are key to one's starting any new drug therapy. FSBP has partnered with Freedom Fertility Pharmacy, part of the Evernorth family, to provide all of this and more to our members in the U.S. Today, we have two experts from Freedom joining us to talk about their services for FSBP members.  For more information, please visit www.freedomfertility.com  Coverage of medications may be subject to prior approval and prior authorization of fertility services by the Foreign Service Benefit Plan.  For prior approval of comprehensive infertility and ART services, whether services are rendered in the U.S. or outside the U.S., please contact the Plan’s infertility care manager line at 800-593-2354. Prior approval is required for services received in the U.S. and outside the U.S.  Please see our January 2024 episode on Maven to learn more about their support for infertility, maternity, and more.  Join us on February 29 at 11 am ET for AFSPA Live and a discussion focused on fertility.  Join us on March 1 at 11 am ET for AFSPA's Annual Meeting.  More information on all upcoming events at www.afspa.org/events

AFSPA Talks Contraception Coverage

9 min

Our focus for the month of February is on fertility. We'll have more content later this month about the enhanced infertility coverage under the Foreign Service Benefit Plan for 2024. Today, though, we are talking about coverage for contraception. All of the information in the podcast comes from Sections 5a, 5b, and 5f and Section 7 of the 2024 FSBP Brochure available at https://www.afspa.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/2024_FSBP_Brochure_-RI-72-001_Final_1.8.2024.pdf.  To initiate the contraceptive exception process, members can call Express Scripts at 800-841-2734.   

AFSPA Talks Virtual Primary Care

30 min

In this episode of AFSPA Talks, we discuss a new solution from Teladoc. Lisa DeLarso joins us to share about Virtual Primary Care. Primary360 is a virtual primary care solution that inspires lasting relationships between people and care providers through longitudinal care plans, continuous care team support, and a unified, whole-person experience. Primary360 offers a solution that isn’t always available with traditional care—including personalization, flexibility, choice, convenience, and care coordination. From the new patient visit to every checkup afterward, Primary360 allows people to be fully supported by a care team across their healthcare needs. For more information about virtual primary care, please visit Teladoc.com/Aetna or call 1-855-835-2362.  Please note that the virtual primary care program is available only to FSBP members physically located in the United States.

AFSPA Talks Maven

33 min

To kick off our 2024 podcasts, we have an episode focused on one of the new programs available to FSBP members: Maven Clinic. Maven is a comprehensive virtual care platform providing critical support across fertility, pregnancy, adoption, parenting, pediatrics, and ongoing care including all stages of menopause. This program became available to FSBP members on January 1 at no cost.  Marcy Cuneo and Teresa Wilkinson from Maven join AFSPA Talks to provide an overview of what Maven offers and how their care model works. Maven leaders will join us for AFSPA Live on February 29 at 11 am ET. See www.afspa.org/events for all of our upcoming events.  To learn more about Maven, go to http://mavenclinic.com/join/FSBP See the 2024 FSBP Brochure for full details of infertility coverage. Please note that all infertility services, whether received in the U.S. or overseas, require prior approval. Call 800-593-2354 before scheduling services. You also can connect with fertility advocates by calling 833-415-1709.

AFSPA Talks 2024 Open Season FAQs

22 min

With today's episode, we address the most frequently asked questions on open season. A panel of AFSPA experts joins to provide answers and clarity on changes for 2024.    For more information on open season, please visit www.afspa.org/openseason  To contact the infertility prior approval line, call 1-800-593-2354.  To contact the Plan's fertility advocate, call 1-833-415-1709.  For more information about the FSBP Express Scripts Medicare Prescription Drug Plan, visit www.afspa.org/pdp. You will find the form there to opt out.  For more on our direct billing partners, visit https://www.afspa.org/fsbp/overseas/overseas-partners/.  For more information on dental, life, and disability insurance programs offered by AFSPA, visit www.afspa.org/aip.

AFSPA Talks Open Season 2024

28 min

Today, Kyle and Maddie discuss the 2024 open season with a particular focus on the improvements under FSBP. In particular, their discussion focuses on:  Increases in the allowance for alternative benefits: massage, acupuncture, and chiropractic services; Expansion in the coverage of infertility services; and The new Medicare Part D Prescription Drug Plan (PDP) Don't miss other upcoming open-season events. Find all of our events at www.afspa.org/events.    We couldn't fit all the information into the podcast, so here are some links with more information:  AFSPA/FSBP Open Season information: www.afspa.org/openseason FSBP-Express Scripts Prescription Drug Plan (PDP): www.afspa.org/pdp Prior approval line for Comprehensive Infertility and ART: 800-593-2354 Fertility Advocate: 833-415-1709 Gender Affirming Surgical prior approval: 800-593-2354 

AFSPA Talks ADHD

40 min

There are an increasing number of diagnoses of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in both children and adults. Despite the prevalence of this diagnosis, many do not understand this condition. Today, we welcome a health coach from Brightline Health who will walk through the basics of ADHD including behaviors, symptoms and treatments. Our guest discusses the support offered by Brightline Health, an in-network, stateside provider for Foreign Service Benefit Plan members.  Learn more and sign up for Brightline at www.hellobrightline.com/fsbp Check out our latest blog about ADHD at afspa.org/blogs. Find information about FSBP changes for 2024 and events around open season at www.afspa.org/openseason Our full events calendar is available at www.afspa.org/events.

AFSPA Talks Medicare Prescription Drug Plans

41 min

Beginning in January 2024, many Federal Employee Health Benefits Program (FEHBP) plans will be offering a Medicare Prescription Drug Plan (PDP) to their members. The Foreign Service Benefit Plan will be among them. This program will result in savings for our members aged 65 and older. Join us for a detailed discussion of PDPs generally and the specifics of the FSBP PDP.  Mark your calendars for two upcoming discussions of the FSBP PDP:  October 31, at 12 noon ET - We will offer a live webinar with an overview of the PDP and a chance for you to ask your questions.  November 30 at 11 am ET - Our monthly AFSPA Talks program will focus on the PDP and offer another opportunity for you to get answers about this program.  You can learn more at www.afspa.org/fsbp/pdp.  If you have questions about the benefits under the PDP, please contact the dedicated Express Scripts line at 855-690-8353, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.  For more information on Medicare Part D premiums, please visit https://www.medicare.gov/drug-coverage-part-d/costs-for-medicare-drug-coverage/monthly-premium-for-drug-plans. Please see the 2024 chart at the bottom of the page (based on 2022 income). 

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