FEES Referrals for Clinicians
Giving Clinicians the Data They Need to Protect Patients
Swallowing difficulties (dysphagia) are a frequent and serious concern following stroke, Parkinson’s disease, ALS, dementia, and generalized weakness. Left unassessed, dysphagia can lead to aspiration pneumonia, malnutrition, dehydration, and reduced quality of life.
Diagnostech provides an on-site Fiberoptic Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing (FEES) so speech professionals and care teams can quickly identify swallowing problems, adjust interventions, and safeguard patient outcomes, without requiring hospital transfer.
Why Choose FEES?
FEES provides a clear, real-time view of swallowing mechanics while the patient eats and drinks. Unlike other assessments, results are available immediately, allowing you to adjust diet recommendations and therapy plans on the spot. Because exams are performed on-site, care is more efficient and patient safety is improved.
Clinical Indications
Clinicians turn to Diagnostech because FEES testing is especially valuable for patients with:
- Post-stroke dysphagia
- Parkinson’s disease
- ALS
- Dementia or cognitive decline
- Generalized weakness impacting swallowing
The Importance of Early Assessment
Early diagnosis helps prevent hospitalizations, aspiration pneumonia, and other avoidable complications. It also allows clinicians to maintain patient dignity and quality of life by ensuring food and liquid intake remains safe. With FEES, interventions can be made before a patient experiences a crisis, strengthening both care outcomes and confidence among families.
What Patients Experience
The procedure is quick and well tolerated. A slim, flexible endoscope is gently inserted through the nose while the patient swallows different consistencies of food and liquid. There is no need for sedation, and most patients describe it as mildly uncomfortable at most. Results are available immediately, and our clinicians review findings collaboratively with the treating SLP and medical team so changes can be made without delay.
If you are a speech professional, facility clinician, or caregiver, you can refer patients directly to Diagnostech.
