Does Medicaid Cover ABA Therapy in Virginia?
Published April 8, 2026
Yes — Virginia Medicaid covers ABA therapy for children and teens under 21 with an autism diagnosis. Virginia delivers Medicaid through a managed care program called Medallion 4.0, and has a separate EDCD Waiver for children and adults needing more intensive supports. Here's what you need to know.
Key takeaways
- Virginia Medicaid (Medallion 4.0) covers ABA for all children under 21 with autism
- Major plans include Anthem HealthKeepers Plus, Aetna Better Health, Molina, and Optima
- Virginia's commercial insurance mandate covers children through age 10
- Northern Virginia/DC metro and Richmond have the strongest ABA provider networks
- Adults may access services through the DD Waiver program
Virginia Medallion 4.0 managed care plans
Virginia's Medallion 4.0 program manages physical and behavioral health for most Medicaid enrollees. The plans operating in Virginia include:
- Anthem HealthKeepers Plus — statewide, largest VA Medicaid plan
- Aetna Better Health of Virginia — statewide
- Molina Healthcare of Virginia — statewide
- Optima Health Community Care — Hampton Roads and south
- United Healthcare Community Plan of VA — statewide
Virginia's autism insurance mandate
Virginia law requires fully-insured commercial health plans to cover ABA therapy for children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder through age 10. The mandate covers up to $35,000 per year. Families with children over 10 on private insurance should still check their specific plan, as many voluntarily cover older children.
How to access ABA through Virginia Medicaid
- Confirm your Medicaid plan at coverva.org or call 1-833-5CALLVA.
- Get an autism diagnosis from a licensed psychologist, physician, or psychiatrist.
- Contact your managed care plan for in-network ABA providers or search FindABA.
- Complete prior authorization — typically 7–14 days for approval.
- Services begin at no cost to you.
Virginia resources
- Cover Virginia (Medicaid): coverva.org
- VA DD Waiver: dmas.virginia.gov/for-members/developmental-disabilities
- Autism Society of Virginia: autismsocietyva.org
- Medicaid helpline: 1-833-5CALLVA
Find Virginia ABA providers that accept Medicaid
FindABA lists ABA providers across Virginia showing accepted plans including Anthem HealthKeepers Plus, Aetna Better Health, and Medicaid.
Search Virginia providers →