The SWAL-QOL outcomes tool for oropharyngeal dysphagia in adults: I. Conceptual foundation and item development

In the past two decades, noteworthy advances have been made in measuring th e physiologic outcomes of dysphagia, including measurement of duration of s tructure and bolus movements, stasis, and penetration-aspiration. However, there is a paucity of data on health outcomes from the patients' perspectiv e, such as quality of life and patient satisfaction. A patient-based, dysph agia-specific outcomes tool is needed to enhance information on treatment v ariations and treatment effectiveness. We present the conceptual foundation and item generation process for the SWAL-QOL, a quality of life and qualit y of care outcomes tool under development for dysphagia researchers and cli nicians.