Mobile FEES frequently asked questions

FEES (Flexible Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing, also called Fiberoptic Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing) is a bedside instrumental swallow study. A thin, flexible scope is passed through the nose so the clinician can watch the throat and airway in real time while the resident eats and drinks real food and liquid. There is no radiation and no barium.

The physician or nurse practitioner signs the order. The facility SLP initiates the referral with us so that every study is clinically appropriate and the treating therapist can collaborate during the exam.

Studies are scheduled within 72 hours of referral, and often within 24–48 hours. You do not need to batch multiple patients for us to come out; single studies are scheduled within 1–2 business days.

You get clinical answers at bedside during the study, and the written report is delivered the same day or within 48 business hours by HIPAA-compliant email to the physician and facility contacts you designate.

FEES complements MBS. Both are instrumental assessments. FEES is often preferred in skilled nursing because it is done at bedside, uses no radiation, uses the resident’s real food, and gives immediate results. MBS is still the right test when the oral or esophageal phases need to be seen. Compare FEES and MBS.

The facility receives a simple monthly itemized invoice. Because CPT 92612 falls under CMS consolidated billing, we do not bill Medicare directly for residents in a covered stay. For eligible Part B residents, your facility may file for partial reimbursement using the information on our invoice.

No. There are no cancellation fees, no minimum volume, and no hidden charges. If a patient cannot complete the study, there is no charge.

Very little. Have the resident alert, upright in a typical dining position, and have the signed order, consent, facesheet, and medication list printed. Basic help with positioning is appreciated if the SLP needs it.

We serve skilled nursing, short-term rehabilitation, long-term care, inpatient rehab, and assisted living facilities in Ohio, and only Ohio. See our Ohio service area or email us your facility’s city to confirm scheduling.

Neither is better for every resident. Both are accepted instrumental swallow assessments. FEES is often preferred in nursing homes because it is done at the bedside without transport or radiation and uses real food. MBS is preferred when the oral phase or esophageal transit has to be seen.

Yes. FEES directly shows penetration and aspiration before and after the swallow, including events with no cough response. It also shows secretions and residue that can raise aspiration risk.

Not for residents whose services fall under SNF consolidated billing. CPT 92612 is a speech-language pathology code, so the facility pays the FEES provider under arrangement. For eligible Part B residents, the facility may then file for reimbursement.

Your SLP’s own treatment time may be billable under your facility’s normal rules. Check with your billing or compliance team about your specific situation.