Wentworth-Halton Swallowing Clinic
A swallowing assessment, also known as a Dysphagia Evaluation, is a detailed examination to assess how well a person swallows food and liquids.
The process typically begins with a clinical (bedside) assessment, where the SLP reviews the patient’s medical history, observes their eating and drinking, and evaluates signs of difficulty, such as coughing, throat clearing, or changes in voice quality.
Depending on complexity, assessments range from in-clinic table-side swallowing, bedside evaluations, to advanced tests like Modified Barium Swallow (MBSS) or Videofluoroscopic Swallowing Studies (VFSS).
Each of our clinicians is certified in use of the Modified Barium Swallow Impairment Profile, a standardized protocol to interpret and communicate swallowing impairment in a manner that is subjective, consistent, accurate, and objective
The results of the assessment help determine the safest diet consistency, necessary therapy techniques, and any modifications needed to reduce the risk of choking or aspiration pneumonia. Through this evaluation, patients receive personalized strategies to improve swallowing safety and efficiency, enhancing their overall quality of life.
Gold Standard of Care
Our clinicians conduct thorough swallowing assessments following the International Dysphagia Diet Standardization Initiative (IDDSI) guidelines, a global standard for managing swallowing difficulties across all ages, settings, and cultures.
Indicators for a Swallowing Assessment
If you experience any of the following, a swallowing assessment and/or treatment may be beneficial:
✅ Coughing, gagging, or throat clearing during or after eating
✅ Feeling of food or pills “stuck” in the throat
✅ Food remaining in the mouth after swallowing
✅ Slow chewing or prolonged mealtime
✅ “Wet” or gurgly-sounding voice after eating
✅ Food falling from the mouth
✅ Pain while swallowing
For personalized guidance tailored to your specific needs, consult a speech-language pathologist.
Booking an Appointment
For consultations or Swallow Assessments as recommended by a physician:
- Download Physician’s Requisition Form
- Email or Fax completed form to Lear Communication, info@learcomm.ca , F: 905-667-1443.
In partnership with
Testing Location
Your assessment will be conducted at Wentworth-Halton X-Ray & Ultrasound. 1 Young Street, Unit #105, Hamilton, ON
T: 905-522-2344
We’re here to help! Contact us for more information or to schedule an assessment and treatment.
