Flexible Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing (FEES) is a portable procedure that can be completed on-site within your facility. Because of this, there is no need to transport patients to a hospital or coordinate scheduling with radiology departments. FEES can be performed at the patient’s bedside or chairside, allowing them to remain comfortable in their familiar surroundings. This is particularly beneficial for patients with transportation challenges, including tracheostomy- and ventilator-dependent individuals, as well as bariatric patients.

FEES is viewed and recorded using high-definition digital imaging, allowing clinicians to clearly visualize pharyngeal secretions and assess whether a patient may be aspirating on his or her own secretions. In addition, FEES provides direct visualization of the vocal folds, along with pharyngeal and laryngeal structural abnormalities that may contribute to swallowing impairment. Lastly, FEES is not limited by strict time constraints, which allows clinicians to evaluate how fatigue may affect swallowing performance over time.

Why Mobile FEES

What is Mobile FEES?

Flexible Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing (FEES) is a portable, evidence-based imaging procedure used to assess swallowing safety at the patient's bedside. By inserting a thin endoscope through the nose, speech pathologists can view the larynx and pharynx in real time while the patient eats and drinks. This enables clinicians to identify aspiration risks and test remedial strategies immediately without hospital transport. Developed by Dr. Susan Langmore, FEES is clinically equivalent to barium studies and is a standard of care within the scope of practice for Florida's licensed Speech-Language Pathologists.

Cost and Efficiency Benefits of On-Site FEES

Providing FEES in your facility typically costs about one-third of a hospital-based Modified Barium Swallow Study. Because patients remain on-site, transportation costs are avoided, and they can continue participating in scheduled therapy and medical services.

Facility nursing staff do not need to leave the building, and your in-house Speech-Language Pathologist can be present to support clinical decision-making. Detailed reports from the evaluation help justify dysphagia therapy and support insurance documentation.

Timely, objective assessment of swallowing can enable safe diet advancements, which may reduce reliance on modified textures, thickened liquids, or tube feedings, lowering overall care costs.

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Why Mobile FEES

What is Mobile FEES?

Cost and Efficiency Benefits of On-Site FEES

Providing FEES in your facility typically costs about one-third of a hospital-based Modified Barium Swallow Study. Because patients remain on-site, transportation costs are avoided, and they can continue participating in scheduled therapy and medical services.

Facility nursing staff do not need to leave the building, and your in-house Speech-Language Pathologist can be present to support clinical decision-making. Detailed reports from the evaluation help justify dysphagia therapy and support insurance documentation.

Timely, objective assessment of swallowing can enable safe diet advancements, which may reduce reliance on modified textures, thickened liquids, or tube feedings, lowering overall care costs.