What is the Extended Care Health Option (ECHO)?

The Extended Care Health Option (ECHO) is a supplemental benefit program for active duty family members who have qualifying physical or psychological conditions, providing services and supplies beyond what standard TRICARE covers. ECHO is specifically designed to support dependents with moderate or severe mental retardation, serious physical disabilities, extraordinary physical or psychological conditions, or an infant or toddler with a disability or at risk of substantial developmental delay. ECHO benefits include Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) for autism, assistive technology devices and services, durable medical equipment beyond standard TRICARE limits, expanded home health care, institutional care in approved facilities, respite care (up to 16 hours per month), special education and training, and vocational rehabilitative services. ECHO has an annual benefit cap (currently $36,000 per fiscal year) that applies to most ECHO-covered services. Registration in the Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP) is required for ECHO eligibility. Active duty sponsors with ECHO-eligible family members should work with their EFMP coordinator and TRICARE to maximize available benefits.