FEES referral & scheduling guide for SLPs
You know your patient best. Our model is built around the treating SLP: you start the referral, you join the study, and you leave with findings you can treat from.
When to refer for FEES
- Suspected aspiration or airway invasion
- Change in swallowing status
- Diet upgrade or downgrade decisions
- Tracheostomy or ventilator patients
- Recurrent pneumonia or respiratory decline
- Poor PO intake or weight loss
- Need for visualization to guide treatment
How to schedule a study
The SLP must start every referral so we can collaborate and make sound clinical decisions.
Partner facilities receive referral instructions during onboarding. Once your building is set up, your SLP will know exactly how to request a study.
Turnaround: within 72 hours, often 24–48 hours.
Not a partner facility yet? Contact us to get your building set up.
Day-of-study checklist
Patient prep
- Alert and medically stable
- Upright in typical dining position
- Dentures, hearing aids, and glasses in place (if used)
Supplies at bedside
- 3 spoons, 1 straw, 3 towels
- Suction setup if needed
- Trach supplies (if applicable)
- Gloves
Paperwork printed
- Signed FEES order and signed consent
- Facesheet and medication list
- Prior instrumental exams
What you’ll receive after the study
- Diet and liquid recommendations
- Swallowing strategies, as indicated
- Therapy recommendations based on pathophysiology
- Objective findings for documentation and care planning
Reports arrive the same day or within 48 business hours by HIPAA-compliant email.
Be at the bedside
We strongly encourage the treating SLP to attend. You can see your patient’s swallow, trial strategies with us in real time, and leave with a treatment plan rather than just a diet level.
Want FEES at your building?
Reach out to get your facility set up. Your SLPs will get referral instructions at onboarding.