(FEES) Swallowing Evaluation
Swallowing should feel safe and comfortable. If eating or drinking has become hard, a FEES swallow assessment can help us see what’s going on and guide the right care. FEES (Flexible/Fiberoptic Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing) uses a tiny camera so we can watch how you swallow small sips and bites. It’s an in-office test with no radiation, and we can talk through what we see the same day.
At Speech Therapy For All, licensed speech-language pathologists perform FEES for adults. You’ll get clear answers, a simple plan, and friendly, comprehensive support for you and your family.
What FEES Shows (in Simple Terms)
During FEES, a thin, flexible camera rests gently in the nose to view the back of the throat. As you try small amounts of food or drink, we see how the throat muscles work, if anything “goes the wrong way,” and which strategies or textures are safest. Because there’s no X-ray, FEES can be repeated over time to check progress.
People choose FEES when they cough or choke with meals, feel food or pills “stuck,” have a wet-sounding voice after swallowing, or need answers after illness, surgery, or stroke. FEES can also confirm if your current swallowing plan is working or needs a small change.
What to Expect at Your Visit
We’ll explain each step in simple language. The scope is placed gently, you take a few sips and bites, and we watch your swallow in real time. Right after the test, we review what we saw and outline next steps—strategies, diet changes, therapy, or doctor follow-ups if needed. FEES is routinely done in a clinic setting by trained clinicians.
FEES provides a close, real-time view of the throat during swallowing without radiation. It’s well-suited to checking the effects of fatigue, secretions, and immediate strategy changes—information we can use right away to make eating and drinking safer.
Want a step-by-step walkthrough? Read our blog post about the FEES swallow assessment to learn what it looks like, who it helps, and how it supports safer meals at home.
Cost & Insurance
Many families ask, “how much does a FEES test cost?” Prices can vary by insurance and setting. Most major insurances are accepted: Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna, Emblem Health (GHI/HIP), Humana TriCare, Magnacare, Medicare, NYSHIP, UMR, and United Healthcare.
Insurance not listed? We have budget-friendly out-of-network/self-pay plans. Call us to discuss—your initial consultation is 100% free.
Ready to Get Help?
Don’t wait—safe, comfortable eating starts with answers.
Click below or call us now. We’ll schedule your FEES visit quickly and give you a clear quote, including insurance details, before your appointment.