FAQs

what is FEES?

A FEES (Fiberoptic Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing) swallow assessment is a specialized procedure conducted by speech-language pathologists to evaluate and diagnose swallowing disorders, also known as dysphagia. During a FEES assessment, a flexible endoscope equipped with a camera and light source is inserted through the patient's nostril and positioned to provide a clear view of the pharynx, larynx, and upper esophagus.

what locations do you serve?

We can provide FEES to acute care and rehabilitation hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, assisted living facilities, outpatient rehabilitation clinics, long-term acute care hospitals, and physician clinics (e.g., ENT, GI, and pulmonology offices). We are based in Oxford, MS, but our mobile capabilities allow us to serve your facility all over the State.

who is a candidate for FEES?

FEES can be completed on any patient with signs or symptoms of dysphagia without evidence of bilateral nasal obstruction; facial, maxillary, or nasal fractures; or severe epistaxis (nose bleeds). We serve patients with various types of feeding tubes (NG, PEG), isolation precautions, dementia, tracheostomy tube placements, and speaking valves, as well as patients who require supplemental oxygen, are ventilator dependent, or are medically complex or obese.

how does my patient get billed?

FEES procedure is considered a speech-language pathology therapy service (CPT Code 92612). All therapy services fall under the consolidated billing rules as of the Balanced Budget Act of 1997.


If a FEES procedure is completed in the subacute setting, the facility is responsible for payment to HMF directly for the procedure per the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) guidelines. The facility then bills the patient’s fiscal intermediary for reimbursement. For more information, visit the CMS website.

do you use topical anesthesia?

This depends on the patient and their comfort level and medical history. We have the option to utilize topic anesthetics, if needed, and ordered by the physician. However, this is not necessary to complete the examination.

do you provide any other services?

We are always available to provide informational in-services and consultation on a variety of topics, including (but not limited to):

  • General Dysphagia

  • Frazier Free Water Protocol

  • Dysphagia within Specific Disorders (e.g., Parkinson’s, Dementia, ALS, MS, and CVA)

  • Oral Care Hygiene Programs

  • International Dysphagia Diet Standardization Initiative (IDDSI) for Dysphagia Diet Guidelines

  • Strategies to Alleviate Xerostomia (Dry Mouth)

  • Aspiration and Reflux Precautions

  • Laryngopharyngeal Reflux (LPR)

  • Voice Disorders

  • Respiratory Disorders

  • Neurological Diseases