COMDTINST 1754.7C — Special Needs Program

COMDTINST 1754.7C governs the Coast Guard Special Needs Program, including enrollment, assignment considerations, and family support.

Search COMDTINST 1754.7C

  • Publication number: COMDTINST 1754.7C
  • Title: SPECIAL NEEDS PROGRAM
  • Date: 4/9/2020
  • Proponent: CG-111

View COMDTINST 1754.7C on armypubs.army.mil


It addresses special needs categories, medical and community services, non-clinical case management, privacy, TRICARE ECHO, and related forms. It requires enrollment for eligible active duty members and protects program information through confidentiality controls.

Applies to: This Instruction applies to all active duty (AD) members.

Topics covered

  • Special Needs Program enrollment
  • Assignment consideration for special needs
  • Non-clinical case management
  • Special needs category system
  • TRICARE ECHO services
  • Family medical forms
  • Special Needs Resource Teams
  • Program information confidentiality

Questions and answers

Who must enroll in the Coast Guard Special Needs Program?

Enrollment in the Coast Guard Special Needs Program is mandatory for all AD members who have dependent family members diagnosed with medical, psychological, physical, or educational special needs. (paragraph 4)

Can reservists deployed for less than 181 days enroll in the Special Needs Program?

Coast Guard reservists mobilized and deployed for less than 181 days are not eligible for enrollment in the Special Needs Program, unless they are eligible for the Extended Care Health Option (ECHO) of TRICARE. (paragraph 4)

How must Special Needs Program information be protected?

All information related to the Special Needs Program must be kept strictly confidential with access only by authorized personnel who have a need-to-know.

What form is required for initial enrollment and disenrollment?

AD members must submit this form for initial enrollment, status change, 3-year update, and disenrollment from the Special Needs Program. (paragraph 4)

Who determines the special needs category?

The category of special needs is determined by a Senior Medical Executive at the time of the initial enrollment in the Special Needs Program and reevaluated during the enrollment update, or when new special needs condition develops.

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