In most cases, yes. Colorado's autism insurance mandate (SB 15-015, effective July 1, 2017) requires state-regulated health plans to cover ABA therapy for autism with no age limit and no annual dollar cap. In Colorado, Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield of Colorado is the primary BCBS licensee. Confirm your specific plan with a Verification of Benefits before starting.
Colorado's autism insurance mandate (SB 15-015, effective July 1, 2017) requires state-regulated health insurance plans to cover the diagnosis and treatment of autism spectrum disorder, including ABA therapy, with no age limit and no annual dollar cap. In Colorado, Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield of Colorado is the primary BCBS licensee. Self-funded employer plans governed by federal ERISA are generally exempt from this state mandate. BCBS covers ABA therapy for autism spectrum disorder when the plan includes the benefit and treatment is medically necessary.
Most BCBS plans in Colorado require prior authorization before ABA services begin:
A formal ASD diagnosis from a licensed psychologist or developmental pediatrician is required before submitting a treatment plan.
BCBS typically requires a treatment plan with measurable goals, assessment results, weekly therapy hours, and the BCBA's credentials before authorizing ABA services.
Authorizations are typically reviewed periodically. Call the member services number on your BCBS card to confirm your plan's specific authorization process.
Families across the Denver metro — including Denver, Aurora, Lakewood, Thornton, Arvada, Westminster, Centennial, and Highlands Ranch — and in Colorado Springs and the Front Range frequently ask whether BCBS covers ABA in their area. Coverage follows Colorado's statewide SB 15-015 rules regardless of which city you are in; what varies is provider availability and network status. Harmony Care Finder's provider network spans the Front Range, so one coverage check surfaces in-network BCBS options closest to you.
Call the member services number on your BCBS card and request a Verification of Benefits. Confirm: ABA coverage, prior authorization requirements, deductible, copay, and out-of-pocket maximum. Ask specifically whether your employer plan is fully-insured (covered by Colorado's mandate) or self-funded.
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This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical, clinical, or therapeutic advice. Consult a licensed healthcare provider or Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) before making therapy decisions for your child.
Data current as of August 2026. Coverage terms and provider availability change frequently — verify directly with your insurance carrier and the provider before scheduling.