What Is NOMS?
The National Outcomes Measurement System (NOMS) is a data collection system developed to illustrate the value of speech-language pathology and audiology services provided to adults and children with communication and swallowing disorders. The key to NOMS is the use of ASHA’s Functional Communication Measures (FCMs). FCMs are a series of disorder-specific, seven-point rating scales designed to describe the change in an individual’s functional communication and/or swallowing ability over time. Based on an individual’s treatment plan/IEP, FCMs are chosen and scored by a certified speech-language pathologist on admission and again at discharge to depict the amount of change in communication and/or swallowing abilities after speech and language intervention. By examining the scores from admission and discharge, clinicians can assess the amount of change and, thus, the benefits of treatment. Through the use of NOMS, we are now beginning to demonstrate the value of speech-language pathology a
