Approximately ten percent of the military workforce has one or more family members with special needs. The military offers numerous resources, medical and financial assistance for these family members, but accessing these benefits can be confusing and time-consuming. In addition, challenges specific to the military (frequent moves, isolation from family, and Service members’ work demands) can make accessing necessary services even more challenging for military special needs families. This session will discuss the structure of services available to military beneficiaries with special needs and common challenges military families face. Participants will become familiar with various resources and organizations that offer assistance to families, and their eligibility requirements. Finally, this webinar will discuss ways in which providers might offer support to both caregivers and their children with special needs.
Learning Objectives: After this webinar, participants will be able to:
- Appraise whether a DOD beneficiary meets criteria for enrollment into the Exceptional Family Member Program.
- Develop a treatment plan for the parent of a special needs child that addresses one or more of the challenges common to military families.