Exceptional Families, Exceptional Service
The Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP) is a mandatory enrollment program that works with other military and civilian agencies to provide comprehensive and coordinated medical, education, special housing accommodations, community support, and personal services to Families with special needs.
Who is an exceptional family member?
An exceptional family member is a Family Member (child or adult) with any physical, emotional, developmental, or intellectual disability that required special treatment, therapy, education, training or counseling.
Who must enroll in the program?
The following Soldiers with exceptional family members must enroll in the program:
- Active Duty Soldiers
- US Army Reserve Soldiers in the USAR Active Guard Reserve Program (Mobilized and deployed Soldiers are not eligible)
- Army National Guard AGR personnel serving under authority of Title 10, United States Code and Title 32 United States Code.
How does a Soldier enroll in the program?
The Soldier or spouse will contact the EFMP office at Ireland Army Community Hospital (IACH) to receive the enrollment forms. The family will fill in the demographics portion and then take the forms to the doctor and/or school for their input. The completed forms will then be returned to the EFMP office at IACH for enrollment processing. The enrollment should be updated every three years of more frequently if there is a substantial change.
What are the benefits of enrollment in the program?
Enrollment allows assignment manager to consider the documented needs of the exceptional Family Members. When possible, the Soldier is assigned to an area where the Family Member’s needs may be met. This will depend on a valid personnel requirement of the Soldiers’ grade, specialty, and eligibility for the tour.
What other services are available?
Additional services include information and referrals, advocacy, support groups, respite care, and relocation assistance. However, enrollment does not guarantee special consideration for priority housing, appointments, or other benefits not routinely available to Families.