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The Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP) supports military family members with special needs. This includes spouses, children, or dependent adults who have a chronic medical, psychological or educational concern requiring special services for a period greater than six months.
For Sailors with special needs family members, it is mandatory to enroll in EFMP. Enrollment ensures that Sailors will be stationed in a location where the unique needs of the family will be met. Renewal is required every three years, nine months prior to receiving orders, or when a change in medical status occurs.
“There are many programs, like EFMP, that take care of the whole Sailor,” said Master Chief Navy Counselor Gene Garland, the senior career counselor on board PCU Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78). “The intent behind the program is to maintain the balance between the operational side of the Navy as well as take care of a Sailor’s needs. EFMP is a program that is a part of the process that helps maintain that balance.”
EFMP supports Sailors at the command level and beyond while advancing through their career.
“We determine suitability of Navy and Marine Corp service members and their families [for EMFP] by identifying medical, dental and educational requirements,” said Chief Hospital Corpsman Cedric Gaines, the medical leading chief petty officer on board and the EFMP coordinator.
While enrolled in EFMP, there are many programs and services offered to Sailors and their families that can be used for support. Tricare Extended Care Health Options is a program that provides financial assistance for special needs services and supplies. Respite care is another service that may be used to temporarily provide professional care of the elderly or handicapped to give relief to the primary care giver. Other program and services include recreational programs, speech therapy, behavioral therapy, applied behavioral analysis, and referrals to community services.
EFMP has a comprehensive goal to take care of both the Sailor and their family.
“Sailors can come see myself or HM1 Duran directly for help here on ship,” said Gaines. “Sailors can always rely on Fleet and Family, Military One Source and all of the command specialties such as DAPA (Drug and Alcohol Programs Advisor), CMEO (Command Managed Equal Opportunity) and FAP (Family Advocacy Program).”
Some Ford Sailors are already receiving assistance offered through EFMP and its related programs.
“I just got started with the program,” said Interior Communications Electrician 2nd Class Henrique Soares. “I’ve been in it a few months because of my son and I’ve received help with housing and orders. I also have the backing of Tricare, enlisted community managers and other counselors.”
Being new to the program can be overwhelming.
“Get involved at all stages of the process, from screening to enrollment to continued care,” Soares advises Sailors new to the program. “Learn as you go by asking questions.”
If you have questions or would like more information on the Exceptional Family Member Program please visit Gaines or Hospital Corpsman 1st Class Duran in Ford’s Medical Department.
| Date Taken: | 06.27.2016 |
| Date Posted: | 12.15.2016 19:06 |
| Story ID: | 217935 |
| Location: | US |
| Web Views: | 48 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
This work, Exceptional Family Member Program Supports Ford Sailors, by PO1 Kristopher Ruiz, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.
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