We break down the Dysphagia Outcome and Severity Scale (DOSS)—a 7-point scale created to bring consistency, clarity, and objective severity ratings to dysphagia evals. We dig into the original 1999 article, why the scale was developed, and how SLPs can use it to support documentation, payor justification, and person-centered goal writing.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
What the DOSS measures and how each level (1–7) is defined
Why nutrition, diet modifications, and independence all matter
How the DOSS improves inter-rater reliability in dysphagia evaluations
The importance of environment and supervision in diet recommendations
How to use DOSS levels to build clear goals and treatment plans
Limitations in the original study (and what to consider clinically)
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