The Expert Field Medical Badge (EFMB) is a prestigious recognition of exceptional competence and field medical skills within the United States Army. Achieving this badge is a challenging but rewarding endeavor for medical personnel. Prospective candidates and host units frequently have questions regarding the EFMB testing process. This article addresses these common inquiries, providing clarity on everything from eligibility and preparation to hosting an EFMB event. While the focus is on medical expertise, a common question often arises about the broader role of military doctors, including: Do Military Doctors Have Weapons? While EFMB testing doesn’t directly assess weapon proficiency, understanding the environment in which military medical personnel operate is crucial. This FAQ aims to comprehensively guide you through the EFMB process, ensuring you are well-informed and prepared for success.
Understanding EFMB Requirements and Eligibility
One of the first steps for anyone interested in the EFMB is understanding the basic requirements and ensuring eligibility. Many questions arise concerning orders, scheduling, and initial points of contact.
Obtaining EFMB Orders and Correcting Order Issues
Question: What steps should I take if I’ve lost or never received a copy of my EFMB orders?
Answer: If you are missing your EFMB orders, prompt action is necessary. Email the EFMB Test Control Office Group at [email protected]. In your email, provide your full name, rank, the last four digits of your Social Security number (SSN), and the approximate year, date, and location of the EFMB event you attended. The Test Control Office will attempt to locate your orders or provide further guidance on necessary actions.
Securing a Slot for EFMB Testing
Question: How can I obtain a slot to participate in an EFMB event?
Answer: The EFMB Test Control Office (TCO) does not directly schedule individual candidates for EFMB testing. Slots are managed by the EFMB Officer in Charge (OIC) or Non-Commissioned Officer in Charge (NCOIC) of the unit hosting the EFMB event. A document containing contact information for each host unit is available under the “Host Units” tab on the EFMB website. It is recommended to first attempt contacting the host unit directly to inquire about slot availability. If you encounter difficulties reaching the host unit cadre, you can contact the Test Control Office for further assistance.
Hosting an EFMB Event: Initial Steps and Planning Resources
Units interested in hosting an EFMB event need to follow a structured process to ensure proper scheduling and resource allocation. Understanding the initial steps and available planning resources is crucial for successful event hosting.
Initial Steps to Host an EFMB Event
Question: What are the initial steps for a unit to secure EFMB dates and host an event?
Answer: The EFMB Test Control Office processes requests to host EFMB events on a first-come, first-served basis. To initiate the process, the host unit commander must submit a formal request to conduct EFMB testing to the EFMB Test Control Office (TCO). For units within the Continental United States (CONUS), this request must be submitted no later than 90 days prior to the anticipated test-start date. For Outside the Continental United States (OCONUS) units, the deadline is 120 days prior to the test-start date. Requests submitted after these deadlines will be considered based on date availability.
A sample request to host memo, which must be filled out accurately for TCO approval, is available under the “Requesting to Host” tab on the EFMB website. It is critical to provide accurate contact numbers in the request and to keep the TCO informed of any changes in key personnel involved in the EFMB event planning.
Planning Resources for Host Units
Question: Are there planning resources available to assist host units in organizing an EFMB event?
Answer: Yes, comprehensive planning and training resources are available. The “Planning and Training” tab on the EFMB website provides access to various documents and products designed to assist units in the planning and execution of EFMB testing. These resources are invaluable for ensuring a well-organized and effective EFMB event.
Preparing for the EFMB as a Candidate
For aspiring EFMB candidates, thorough preparation is key to success. Understanding the best preparation strategies and available study resources is essential for maximizing performance during the challenging EFMB test week.
Effective Preparation Strategies for Candidates
Question: What is the best way for a future candidate to prepare for the EFMB?
Answer: The most effective preparation often begins at the unit level. Inquire with your company or unit about the availability of an EFMB train-up program. Participating in such a program can provide structured training and peer support. Individual preparation should focus on key areas: the Army Physical Fitness Assessment (APFA), the 12-Mile Forced March, and the EFMB Written Test. All study materials for the written test are available online and should be reviewed thoroughly in the weeks leading up to testing.
While advice from current badge holders can be beneficial, remember that personalized study habits are most effective. Identify study methods that work best for you to ensure comprehensive preparation for test week. The R2 Performance Center also offers valuable resources, including performance coaches who can provide tailored EFMB preparation strategies for individuals and groups of Soldiers.
Time Restrictions for Hosting and Candidacy
Question: Are there any time restrictions regarding hosting an EFMB event or being an EFMB candidate?
Answer: There are no time restrictions for either hosting or attending an EFMB test. Units can host EFMB tests as frequently as their resources and schedule allow. Consistent communication with the EFMB TCO is essential to ensure the availability of desired testing dates.
Candidates can attend as many EFMB tests as their parent unit permits. However, it is important to note that the parent unit is responsible for covering any travel expenses associated with attending an EFMB event.
Studying for the Written Test and Approved Study Guides
Question: How should I study for the EFMB Written Test, and is there an approved study guide?
Answer: The primary study resource for the EFMB Written Test is the official EFMB Written Test Study Guide. Candidates should thoroughly review and study this guide.
It is crucial to be cautious about using external study materials found on other websites. The EFMB Test Control Office has observed candidates using outdated or irrelevant materials. To ensure effective preparation, rely solely on the official EFMB Written Test Study Guide and materials recommended by the TCO. Using outdated information is a common pitfall that can hinder success.
Eligibility for Sister Services and Weapon Qualification Prerequisite
The EFMB is not exclusive to Army personnel. Understanding eligibility for sister services and the weapon qualification requirement is important for a broader range of potential candidates. This also touches upon the question of do military doctors have weapons, as proficiency might be relevant even if not directly tested during EFMB.
Eligibility for Sister and Foreign Services
Question: Can personnel from sister services or foreign militaries compete for the EFMB?
Answer: Yes, personnel from other U.S. military services and multinational partners are eligible to compete for the EFMB. Eligible candidates from these services must be medical personnel or serving in comparable medical positions. The test board chairperson ultimately determines whether a candidate meets the required standards for acceptance, in accordance with established guidelines.
Weapon Qualification as a Prerequisite
Question: Is weapons qualification a tested event during the EFMB?
Answer: No, weapons qualification is not a tested event at the EFMB site itself. However, a valid weapon qualification scorecard is a mandatory part of the candidate packet and remains a prerequisite for attending EFMB. The standard requires candidates to qualify as an expert on their assigned individual weapon within 12 months of the EFMB test end date. This prerequisite underscores that while EFMB focuses on medical skills, basic military competencies, including weapon proficiency, are expected of all participants, indirectly addressing the context of do military doctors have weapons within their broader military role.
This comprehensive FAQ provides essential information for anyone involved with the Expert Field Medical Badge, from prospective candidates to units planning to host an event. By understanding these frequently asked questions and their answers, individuals and units can better navigate the EFMB process and contribute to the continued excellence of Army field medical care.
