EFMP navigator assists Fort Sill families

By Col. Paul Hossenlopp, Fort Sill Garrison commanderMarch 29, 2012

FORT SILL, Okla. -- Did you know an Exceptional Family Member Program system navigator recently joined the EFMP team at Fort Sill?

Systems navigation is a community support component of the EFMP that connects families with special needs to the systems of care they need, both on and off the installation. Systems navigation also supports the goals of the Army Family Covenant.

Active-duty Army, reserve and National Guard families are eligible for systems navigation assistance regardless of their exceptional family member's medical and/or special education condition. All services are provided at no cost to families.

Systems navigators work with the Army Community Service EFMP team on the installation. They are trained and knowledgeable about the systems of care used by families with special needs. The primary role of a systems navigator is to help families through the available systems of care.

The systems navigator is able to help families with the following:

- Identify your exceptional family member and family strengths and needs;

- Help identify and prioritize your exceptional family member and family goals;

- Develop a family service plan to reach your goals;

- Make referrals to required services;

- Provide information about disabilities or medical conditions of concern;

- Find transportation to appointments related to the family service plan;

- Identify support groups and social activities; and

- Strengthen your ability to advocate for your exceptional family member.

Fort Sill is fortunate to have systems navigation as this added service is not yet located at posts throughout the Army. However, the Army recognizes the importance of expanding the EFMP and looks forward to offering the program at additional installations in the future.

For more information or to meet Christie Seda, the new EFMP systems navigator, call 442- 8539 or e-mail christie.seda@us.army.mil.