Exceptional Family Member Program

The Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP) is a mandatory Department of Defense program that works with military and civilian agencies to provide comprehensive support to military families with special needs dependents. EFMP ensures that families are assigned to locations where necessary medical and educational services are available.

EFMP has three components: • Identification and Enrollment: Mandatory enrollment for family members with special medical or educational needs • Assignment Coordination: Ensures military assignments consider family member needs • Family Support: Connects families with local resources and services

Who qualifies as an Exceptional Family Member: • Family members with chronic medical conditions requiring specialized care • Dependents requiring special education services • Family members with physical, emotional, or developmental disabilities • Dependents needing ongoing therapy or treatment

EFMP and TRICARE: • EFMP enrollment does not change TRICARE benefits • May qualify family members for ECHO (Extended Care Health Option) benefits • Helps ensure assignment locations have needed TRICARE providers • Coordinates with TRICARE for continuity of care during PCS moves

EFMP enrollment is mandatory when a family member meets the criteria. The program protects families by preventing assignments to locations that cannot support their special needs while connecting them with available resources.