In this episode, we speak with Brigid and Tracie, Directors of Swallow Diagnostics, about the growing role of FEES (Fiberoptic Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing) in dysphagia assessment and management.

The discussion explores what FEES is, how it differs from videofluoroscopy, and why access to instrumental swallowing assessments is becoming increasingly important for patients with dysphagia. Brigid and Tracie explain how FEES provides a direct view of swallowing physiology, helping clinicians make more informed decisions about patient care and rehabilitation.

They also share the story behind Swallow Diagnostics, a community-based service established to improve access to swallowing diagnostics for patients who may struggle to attend hospital appointments due to mobility, cognitive, or logistical challenges. The conversation highlights real-world patient experiences, the benefits of bringing diagnostics closer to patients, and the potential role community-based FEES services could play in supporting evolving healthcare models.

The episode concludes with audience questions covering professional development, the future of community FEES services, challenges of establishing a new healthcare service, and the wider vision for improving access to swallowing assessments across the UK.

Topics covered:

• What FEES is and how it works
• FEES vs videofluoroscopy
• Dysphagia assessment and management
• Community-based swallowing diagnostics
• Improving patient access and experience
• Patient case studies and outcomes
• Supporting NHS priorities and reducing hospital admissions
• The future of FEES services in the UK

Healthcare exists to protect human health—but what happens when the systems designed to heal also contribute to the very crisis threatening our future?

In this episode of Scoping the Issues, Professor Richard Hixson—consultant in anaesthesia and critical care medicine, physician environmentalist, and founder of CPD Match—joined us to explore the inseparable relationship between human health and planetary health. The conversation highlighted a powerful truth: sustainability in healthcare is no longer optional. It is central to patient safety, quality of care, and global health equity.

CPD Match

Professor Mayilone Arumugasamy highlights the growing role of single-use GI scopes outside traditional endoscopy units. Key benefits include portability, ease of setup, and reduced reliance on specialised staff, enabling faster interventions in operating rooms, ICUs, and emergency departments. These scopes improve workflow efficiency, support hybrid surgical procedures, and offer teaching advantages through integrated video capture. While reusable scopes remain essential for complex therapeutic cases, single-use scopes complement them effectively. Future opportunities lie in outpatient and ward-based endoscopy, which could potentially reduce waiting lists and improve patient care.