October awareness for EFMP: Supporting military families with exceptional needs

Tamika Sherman Avatar

By Tamika Sherman

Updated on Dec 5, 2024

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Karla Kletzien and her sons, 1-year old Landon and 3-year-old Drake, draw on the pavement with chalk after visiting the resource booths at the Exceptional Family Member Program’s Chalk the Park meet-and-greet event Aug. 12 at the barrier-free playground.
Karla Kletzien and her sons, 1-year old Landon and 3-year-old Drake, draw on the pavement with chalk after visiting the resource booths at the Exceptional Family Member Program’s Chalk the Park meet-and-greet event Aug. 12 at the barrier-free playground.

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The Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP) is a critical resource for military families who have members with special medical or educational needs. This program ensures that military families receive the support and services necessary to thrive, even when dealing with complex health or developmental challenges. In October, several awareness causes are highlighted that directly affect EFMP families. 

October Awareness Causes Impacting EFMP Families

October is home to several awareness months that are particularly relevant to EFMP families. These causes raise awareness for conditions and challenges that exceptional family members may face, shedding light on resources and support available:

  • Dyslexia Awareness Month: Dyslexia is a common learning disability that affects reading, writing, and spelling. Families with children facing this challenge can benefit from specialized educational resources offered through EFMP to ensure they receive the support they need in school.
  • Down Syndrome Awareness Month: EFMP can assist families with educational planning and medical care for family members with Down syndrome. Early intervention and consistent care are vital, and EFMP ensures that families have access to specialized care regardless of where they are stationed.
  • Critical Illness Awareness Month: Families dealing with chronic or critical illnesses often face significant challenges in accessing continuous care, especially when relocating. EFMP ensures that family members with critical illnesses receive uninterrupted medical attention and case management.
  • Blindness Awareness Month: For military families with members who are blind or visually impaired, EFMP provides access to necessary assistive technologies and educational resources. This ensures that their loved ones receive appropriate accommodations in school and home life.
  • Spina Bifida Awareness Month: Spina Bifida can require long-term medical care, and EFMP plays a crucial role in connecting families to specialists, physical therapy, and other critical services for their family member.
  • National Audiology Awareness Month: Hearing impairments can present educational and social challenges for children. EFMP helps families access audiologists and speech therapists to support their child’s development and ensure they have the accommodations necessary for success in school.

Tips for EFMP Families

  1. Stay Organized: Managing appointments, therapies, and educational meetings can be overwhelming. Keep a binder with all medical records, Individualized Education Plans (IEP), and EFMP documentation to stay organized during relocations or transitions.
  2. Advocate for Your Family Member: Be proactive in communicating with your EFMP coordinator, school officials, and medical providers. Don’t hesitate to ask for the resources and support your family member needs.
  3. Prepare for Relocations Early: PCS moves can be challenging for EFMP families. Start the process of connecting with your new EFMP office early, and make sure all medical care is coordinated in advance of the move to avoid any gaps in services.
  4. Utilize Available Resources: EFMP families have access to numerous support services through the military. Programs like Military OneSource offer specialized EFMP resources, such as counseling, educational support, and case management.
    • Military OneSource’s EFMP Resources: Military OneSource provides confidential, free support to military families with exceptional needs. They offer 24/7 help, whether it’s financial assistance, connecting to local resources, or managing educational accommodations. 
  5. Connect with Support Groups: Many military installations have EFMP support groups where families can share their experiences and offer advice. Engaging with other families in similar situations can provide emotional support and practical advice.

Resources for EFMP Families

  • EFMP Family Support Services: Each branch of the military offers EFMP services, including case managers who assist families with navigating medical, educational, and special care needs. Reach out to your local EFMP coordinator for specific services.
  • Military OneSource: Offers a wealth of resources, including 24/7 counseling, information on legal and financial aid, and educational support for families enrolled in EFMP.
  • Specialized Care Centers: EFMP families often need to work with specialized medical providers or therapists. Use the resources provided by EFMP and TRICARE to ensure continuity of care during relocations.

By utilizing the Exceptional Family Member Program and staying informed about the various awareness causes in October, military families can advocate for the best possible care for their loved ones. October serves as an important reminder of the resources available to ensure that exceptional family members receive the care, education, and support they need to thrive.