The Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP) is a Department of Defense program offered by all branches of the military. It's a mandatory enrollment program for all active duty service members who have a special needs family member. EFMP provides comprehensive support to Family members with special needs by taking an all-inclusive approach to coordinate military and civilian community, educational, medical, housing, and personnel services to help service members and their families with special needs.
The program has 3 separate components:
• Identification & Enrollment
• Assignment Coordination
• Family Support
EFMP Family Support plays a critical role in helping families navigate the Identification and Enrollment and Assignment Coordination processes. They also connect families with resources and support — helping them to become their own best advocate — with services including:
• Information and referral for military support providers and community services
• Referral to other Military and Family Support Warm handoffs to the EFMP at the next location
• Non-clinical case management
The JBSA EFMP Family Support also provides assistance with Respite Care, support groups, educational and informative classes and workshops, outreach services, and recreational activities and outings.
Who is an Exceptional Family Member?
An Exceptional Family Member is an adult or child with any physical, emotional, developmental, or intellectual disorder that requires special treatment, therapy, education, training, or counseling, and meets the eligibility criteria.
This may include family members that
- Require special medical services for a chronic condition such as: asthma, attention deficit disorder, diabetes, multiple sclerosis, etc.
- Receive ongoing services from a medical specialist
- Have significant behavioral health concern
- Receive early intervention or special education services through an individualized education program or individualized family service plan