Your First Visit

At the UPMC Voice, Airway, & Swallowing Center, our interdisciplinary team works closely to assess and treat you with the best possible level of care. Since you will be seeing two providers today, please plan for 60 to 90 minutes for your appointment.

Here's what you can expect at your first appointment for a voice or airway concern.

Medical History

During your first office visit, one of our medical assistants will escort you from the waiting room. The MA will measure your vitals, review your medications, and ask you to complete the following:

Medical background and family history questionnaire to gain insight into any problems that might contribute to your current voice disorder or condition.
A series of questionnaires to assess your voice/breathing/cough/singing problem.

Speech-Language Pathology Evaluation

Next, one of our speech language pathologists (SLPs) will join you. This may take place in one of our sound insulated rooms. The SLP will ask more detailed questions about your voice or airway concern. Based on your responses, the SLP may evaluate and record your voice for computer-assisted analysis, as well as take breathing and airway measurements.

In addition, the SLP may ask you to do some voice exercises to see if you respond well to voice therapy techniques.

Physician / Physician Assistant Evaluation

Lastly, you will meet with a doctor and/or physician assistant for any further medical questions. They will then perform a laryngeal examination through your nose or mouth to evaluate your voice box. The exam will be recorded and reviewed with you. The physician or PA will additionally examine your head and neck.

Next Steps

At the end of your visit, a multidisciplinary treatment plan will be created with you, the SLP, and the medical provider. This may include further evaluation, as well as surgical, medical, and behavioral interventions. Then, our team will answer any questions and provide written information about your diagnoses and recommended treatments.