First responders are trained to handle anything — but even the most experienced firefighter, EMT, or police officer isn’t immune to the mental and emotional strain of the job. From traumatic calls to long-term burnout, the toll can be profound. That’s why Provident includes its A&H insurance with access to the First Responder Assistance Program (FRAP) — a no-cost, 24/7 mental wellness service for responders and their families that addresses the side of the job standard benefits often overlook.
What Is the First Responder Assistance Program (FRAP)?
FRAP is a confidential, around-the-clock support system included with Provident’s A&H insurance. It provides in-the-moment help for personal or professional challenges.
Services range from counseling and peer support to legal and financial guidance, all coordinated by master’s-level clinicians. When a firefighter, EMT, or officer calls, a care coordinator assesses the situation, addresses urgent needs, and connects them to appropriate resources — short-term counseling, longer-term treatment through a health plan, or community-based programs.
The need is real. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, first responders face elevated risks for post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, and substance use disorders, often compounded by a culture that discourages seeking help. A firefighter grappling with post-incident stress after a fatal call might not know where to turn — but FRAP ensures confidential, immediate support is just a phone call away.
How FRAP Enhances Traditional A&H Insurance Coverage
While A&H insurance protects income and covers costs from job-related injuries or illnesses, FRAP adds an equally critical layer: mental and emotional resilience. Standard policies can’t address the sleepless nights, anxiety, or relationship strain that follow a difficult call — but FRAP does.
Key FRAP features include:
- Three in-person or virtual counseling sessions per issue, available to the responder or household members
- Support for family challenges, from parenting stress to financial strain
- Legal and financial consultation for non-emergency stressors that still affect focus and performance
When agents explain FRAP, questions often arise: “Does this help with burnout or work-life balance?” The answer is yes — because FRAP supports the whole person. A resilient, emotionally healthy responder is more likely to recover fully, return to work faster, and avoid long-term disability.
How Departments and Agents Can Promote FRAP Access and Usage
A benefit is only valuable if people know about it. Agents can help client departments integrate FRAP into their culture by:
- Hosting onboarding sessions that walk new members through how to access services
- Providing QR codes and wallet cards for quick contact information
- Posting program reminders in stations and department newsletters
- Encouraging peer leaders to normalize mental health conversations
Peer integration is one way to build trust, reduce stigma, and strengthen team cohesion. Research on first responder behavioral health shows that peer support encourages open conversations, helps members recognize when they or a colleague may be struggling, and creates a shared sense of responsibility for well-being. Departments that actively promote mental health resources protect their people and foster a culture that keeps them engaged for the long term.
A More Complete Kind of Protection for First Responders
Who qualifies as a first responder? Firefighters, EMS personnel, law enforcement officers, and other trained public safety professionals respond to emergencies. For these individuals, comprehensive coverage isn’t just about medical bills — it’s about safeguarding their livelihoods and mental well-being. Provident’s A&H insurance delivers both, with FRAP adding a vital dimension of care at no extra cost.
For insurance agents, including FRAP in policy proposals is a clear differentiator. It’s a tangible way to show you understand your clients’ challenges and can offer solutions that address them from every angle. Learn more about Provident’s A&H insurance coverage and request a complete FRAP resource packet to share with your clients.
About Provident
Founded in 1902, our rich history involves the creation of custom firefighter insurance benefits in 1928. Today, Provident continues to be a pioneer in developing insurance programs for firefighters, EMS providers, municipal entities, and law enforcement. In addition, we provide Special Risks insurance for various volunteer and nonprofit groups. Give us a call today at (412) 963-1200 to speak with one of our representatives.