Send us a text A submariner’s guide to fixing family policy does not begin in a committee room; it begins in a NICU. Jeremy Hilton joins us to share how his daughter’s complex medical needs reshaped his Navy career and pushed him into a mission to reform the Exceptional Family Member Program and modernize Tricare for military kids. He walks through how lived experience can drive real policy change, from filing an IG complaint that actually moved the needle to finding mentors who opened Hill doors and building coalitions that delivered wins like hospice access for military children. We break down what EFMP is meant to be, a readiness tool for families with medical and educational needs, and why inconsistent execution across services forces too many families to rebuild care at every PCS. Jeremy explains the real cost of each move, from securing specialists to restarting therapies and navigating new school systems. We cover why standardization matters, how a tiered approach could support the most complex cases, and why portability should anchor reform. On Tricare, we address pediatric gaps built into Medicare-based policy, the challenges of aging out, and practical fixes that match how children actually grow and recover. From MOAA to NMFA, from report language to statutory change, this conversation shows how to frame issues for both political parties without losing the human story. The closing challenge is clear. EFMP staffing, transparent assignments, and care portability are not perks for families. They are national security requirements. Share this with teammates navigating EFMP and tell us what reform should come first. The stories and opinions shared on Stories of Service are told in each guest’s own words. They reflect personal experiences, memories, and perspectives. While every effort is made to present these stories respectfully and authentically, Stories of Service does not verify the accuracy or completeness of every statement. The views expressed do not necessarily represent those of the host, producers, or affiliates. Support the show Visit my website: https://thehello.llc/THERESACARPENTER Read my writings on my blog: https://www.theresatapestries.com/ Listen to other episodes on my podcast: https://storiesofservice.buzzsprout.com Watch episodes of my podcast: https://www.youtube.com/c/TheresaCarpenter76
