Building an integrated multidisciplinary swallowing disorder clinic: considerations, challenges, and opportunities
Heather M. Starmer, Karuna Dewan, A. N. Kamal, Abraham Khan, Julia Maclean, Derrick R. Randall
Abstract
Dysphagia is a complex condition with numerous causes, symptoms, and treatments. As such, patients with dysphagia commonly require a multidisciplinary approach to their evaluation and treatment. Integrated multidisciplinary clinics provide an optimal format for a collaborative approach to patient care. In this manuscript, we will discuss considerations for teams looking to build a multidisciplinary dysphagia clinic, including what professionals are typically involved, what patients benefit most from this approach, what tests are most appropriate for which symptoms, financial issues, and traversing interpersonal challenges.
Topics & Concepts
Multidisciplinary approachDysphagiaSwallowingMultidisciplinary teamInterpersonal communicationMedicinePsychologyNursingSurgerySociologySocial psychologySocial scienceDysphagia Assessment and ManagementTracheal and airway disordersEsophageal and GI Pathology