Speech Pathology Australia endorses the International Dysphagia Diet Standardisation (IDDSI) framework as best practice for Speech Pathologists in Australia. The IDDSI framework provides standardised names and descriptions of food and drink used to reduce choking risk. The framework is also supported by the Dietitians Association of Australia and the Institute of Hospitality in Healthcare.
The IDDSI framework for labelling and testing modified texture food and fluids was adopted in Australia on 1 May 2019. In NSW, it has not yet been adopted by the Health system however it is starting to be rolled out in some Aged Care facilities. At Recovery Station, we have made a team decision to begin using this terminology as of 1 August 2019. You will start seeing them in participant’s Mealtime Management Plans from this time.
The IDDSI framework consists of a continuum of 8 levels (0-7), where drinks are measured from Levels 0 – 4, while foods are measured from Levels 3 – 7.
If you would like to know more about IDSSI please ask any of our friendly Speech Pathologists or you can view IDDSI resources at https://iddsi.org/resources/