FAQs

How to refer?

Please email swallowdiagnostics@gmail.com or call 07779584793 to discuss the nature of the referral.

We will triage all referrals from GP, Consultant and SLT colleagues. Self referrals will be considered on an individual basis.

Where will we assess you?

This will depend on your personal circumstances. This may be in a private clinical setting or in your care home environment, avoiding the need for any transport.

What happens after the assessment?

You will have the opportunity to watch the assessment live if desired or it is possible to playback elements of the video immediately after the procedure. We will be able to provide you with a brief verbal summary of findings at the time of assessment, and a report is sent to you/your referrer within 24 hours of assessment.

Who is impacted by dysphagia?

The World Gastroenterology Global guidelines (World Gastroenterology Organisation, 2014) estimates that dysphagia affects 40–70% of patients with stroke, 60–80% of patients with neurodegenerative diseases, up to 13% of adults aged 65 and older and > 51% of institutionalized elderly patients, as well as 60–75% of patients who undergo radiotherapy for head and neck cancer (Ronkainen et al., 2007). Dysphagia is also identified as a key risk for people with learning disabilities (NPSA, 2004) and for 13-57% of people with dementia (Alagiakrishnan et al., 2013).

What nasendoscopy camera do you use?

We use AMBU's sterile single use scopes to ensure we maintain the highest level of hygiene standards. The slim endoscope is designed with a small 3.0mm outer diameter to help minimise patient discomfort during FEES. It delivers high-quality imaging, is always ready when you are and requires no reprocessing or repairs. Navigation in the upper airway is made easy thanks to the endoscope’s high-bending angles and precise tip motion.

How much does a FEES procedure cost?

Costs will be outlined ahead of the assessment with payment secured within 7 days the FEES procedure. Costs can vary based on location, time required and need for any ongoing input. Costs reflect the time allocated to information gathering, the need for two expert SLTs in attendance (in line with Royal College of SLT guidelines), use of single use camera and reporting time.

FEES assessment and reporting: £550 + travel.

Tailored, self-directed Swallowing Rehab Exercise Programmes will be considered on a case by case basis. Costs will be dependent on therapy programme complexity and the need for a 1:1 exercise run through.

Can you provide me with regular swallow therapy sessions?

Our service is based on objective, evidence based assessment of swallowing rather than traditional hypothesis building. This means we are able to give you more certainty with regards to the nature of any swallow breakdown and risk of aspiration (when fluid/food enters the trachea on route to the lungs). If swallowing strategies or exercises are indicated we will make recommendations at the time of the assessment/reporting. In some circumstances we may recommend a repeat FEES assessment after a period of independent swallowing therapy at home. You may have an existing SLT who we can liaise with to guide any further management. In the event that further support is needed we can discuss your needs and how best to meet these.

What area do you cover?

We are based in Guildford, Surrey and will travel out to neighbouring counties.

There are no travel costs incurred within a 10mile radius of Guildford, travel outside of this perimeter will be charged based on the government advisory fuel rate.