FEES Competency Training Program Registration
Training Description
A rigorous, one-week, individually-supervised, competency training experience in Nashville, Tennessee, for qualified Speech-Language-Swallowing Pathologists. This training is to gain first-hand experience with actual patients in the clinical administration, analyses, and reporting of Flexible Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing (FEES) studies. The prospective Trainee must complete the Basic FEES training course presented by SA Swallowing Services only before being considered for this training experience.
For more information and scheduling, contact Matthew Ward (TNvolunteer81@gmail.com)
For onsite competency training information, contact Michelle Skelley (michelle@sasspllc.com)
Pointers for Obtaining and Maintaining FEES Clinical Competency
1) Possess a strong foundation of medical knowledge, including understanding disease, treatments, and best practices as they relate to swallowing and swallowing disorders
2) Demonstrate proficiency in the safe and effective use of nasoendoscopy and standardized FEES administration protocols
3) Make sound decisions based of FEES evaluative results, considering risks and benefits, and adapting to the individual needs of the patient
4) Adjust to diverse patients, their medical statuses, and needs for nutrition and hydration
5) Engage in self-assessment and reflective practices to evaluate and identify strengths and weaknesses in the administration, analyses, and reporting of FEES studies
6) Seek guidance and assistance from other experienced FEES clinicians and participate in peer-review processes
7) Participate in continuing education activities and self-study for swallowing, swallowing disorders, and instrumental assessments to stay abreast of new developments.
Adapted from Google AI Overview of Rules from Clinical Competency, July 1, 2025. Nine sources.
