International Dysphagia Diet Standardisation Initiative

• By: Maureen Carland
• On: 05/14/2025 10:14:03
• In: Quality/Regulatory

Many skilled nursing facilities (SNFs) have implemented a specific diet standard, titled the International Dysphagia Diet Standardisation Initiative (IDDSI).  IDDSI is a global initiative that has developed a standardized framework for naming, describing, and testing the texture of foods and the thickness of liquids for people with dysphagia.  The purpose is to create a common, internationally agreed language for texture-modified foods and thickened liquids. With the goal to improve safety and reduce confusion among patients, caregivers, and healthcare providers across different countries and healthcare settings
The IDDSI Framework Documents provide guidelines to produce safer food and drinks for residents who benefit from a texture modified diet. Implementation of IDDSI requires coordinated teamwork to align efforts with facility goals, including improving safety. 
AHCA/NCAL and Incite Strategic Partners are hosting a free webinar on Tuesday, June 17 at 2 p.m. EDT titled Utilizing IDDSI's Tools to Avoid Texture Modified Food Mistakes and Citations. 
This free webinar covers how to approach your IDDSI plan through: 

• Understanding why incorporating this change is important. 
• How preparing foods that meet IDDSI definitions can best accommodate your residents' needs. 
• Why and how QAPI provides the structure for full implementation. 

 
CEU for CDMs pending approval. Register for this webinar here?. Register now even if you can't attend on June 17. All registrants will be notified when the recorded webinar is available. ?
 
 
Staff contact: mcarland@mehca.org