An Overview of the Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP)

Caring for a family member with special medical, physical, or emotional needs can be difficult, and the challenges of military life make it even more problematic. The U.S. Department of Defense created the Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP) to provide coordinated community, housing, educational, and medical services to military families with special needs.

The goal is to ensure a family member's needs can be considered in the military personnel assignment process, helping them get the support they need to thrive.

Recent Survey Findings

According to a July 2024 survey, the EFMP currently serves an estimated 100,000 military families. The survey found that in the last year, the program had met the needs of 83% of families to some extent.

• 43% of respondents indicated overall satisfaction with the program.
• 33% indicated they were dissatisfied.
• 25% were neither satisfied nor dissatisfied.

The survey also found that enrollment in the program did not necessarily have a negative impact on a service member's decision to stay on active duty.

Recent Program Enhancements

In June 2023, the DoD issued standardized policy guidance to ensure consistency across all service branches. According to Military OneSource, enhancements include:

• Respite Care Services: Eligible families are allotted a standard number of monthly respite care hours, which now covers adult dependents.
• EFMP Family Support: Providers are now required to complete at least one annual personal contact with each family on their caseload.
• Assignment Coordination: The service member has up to 14 calendar days from assignment notification to request a second review.
• Disenrollment: The process is now more transparent, clarifying how and when families can disenroll.

Online Resources and Tools

Military OneSource provides several online tools for the EFMP, including:

• EFMP & Me: An online tool providing families 24/7 direct access to tailored information and resources.
• EFMP Family Support Feedback Tool: A mechanism for families to give feedback to help with program improvements.
• Office of Special Needs EFMP Podcast Series: Features subject matter experts sharing information on education, PCS moves, financial planning, and more.
• The Exceptional Advocate: A quarterly newsletter for military families with special needs.

Military OneSource also provides access to special needs consultants for free and confidential discussions. Appointments can be scheduled via live chat or by calling 800-342-9647.