Bromley Healthcare awarded funding for innovative swallowing therapy for Parkinson’s patients
Swallowing difficulties, or dysphagia, affect up to 80% of people with Parkinson’s disease, often leading to malnutrition, dehydration, and an increased risk of pneumonia. Now, a new treatment programme offers hope to improve the quality of life for people with Parkinson’s in Bromley.
This initiative is supported by a £60,000 grant from Parkinson’s UK, a leading charity committed to enhancing care and support for people living with the condition. From February 2025, Bromley Healthcare’s Adult Speech and Language Therapy team will deliver this innovative treatment programme. Developed in accordance with recommendations from the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), the programme aims to provide the highest standards of evidence-based care.
What the programme involves
The programme focuses on Expiratory Muscle Strength Training (EMST), a pioneering therapy that employs a handheld device to strengthen breathing and swallowing muscles. Patients use the device in regular sessions, gradually increasing resistance as their muscles improve.
The therapy includes:
- Comprehensive assessments: An initial evaluation of swallowing ability and a progress review at the programme’s conclusion.
- Personalised support: Between 10 and 16 tailored sessions to address individual needs.
- Flexible delivery: Options for in-clinic, at-home, or virtual therapy sessions, ensuring accessibility for all patients.
Benefits for people with Parkinson’s disease
Swallowing issues, or dysphagia, can significantly impact individuals with Parkinson’s disease, increasing the risk of food, drink, or saliva entering the airway. EMST strengthens the muscles used in swallowing and improves cough effectiveness, reducing these risks and enabling safer eating and drinking.
Service Lead Bindu Vekaria highlighted the programme’s potential:
“This new treatment represents a significant step forward in improving the quality of life for people living with Parkinson’s. It’s not just about improving swallowing—it’s about empowering individuals to live more independently and with dignity. We’re proud to offer a service that can truly transform lives and bring real hope to our patients and their families.”
How to access the treatment
Bromley residents with Parkinson’s, including those in the early stages of swallowing difficulties such as excess saliva or drooling, are encouraged to come forward for the treatment. Referrals can also be made by carers or healthcare professionals on behalf of someone living with Parkinson’s.
To refer, please contact the Adult Speech and Language Therapy service:
- Email: bromh.asltreferrals@nhs.net
- Phone: 0300 330 5777
When reaching out, please provide your contact details along with any relevant information to help us tailor the service to meet your needs.