Featuring:
Ross Dunbar, COO and VP of Operations of Progia Medical
and
George Barnes, MS, CCC-SLP, BCS-S
and
Taylor Hahn, MA, CCC-SLP
Originally Broadcast February 26, 2026
Company: Progia Medical
Website link: https://progiamedical.com/
Continuing Education Credit: NO ASHA CEUs are offered for this webinar. A certificate of participation is provided upon completion of the survey.
Company Description: The Progia STS is a revolutionary device born from groundbreaking research conducted at the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, in collaboration with the Madison VA Hospital. This pioneering research reinforced that active rehabilitation of the swallowing musculature using isometric progressive resistive exercise for dysphagia treatment enhances swallowing safety while decreasing dysphagia severity.
Pairing this type of isometric progressive resistive exercise and the ability to fully customize the treatment program, and four precision sensors with a Speech Language Pathologist results in documentable improvements in swallow function for patients with dysphagia.
Speaker: Ross Dunbar has been a global, multi-disciplined leader for over 30 years, with experience in the medical device, biopharmaceutical, stem cell, and industrial segments. His roles have included Chief Operating Officer and Vice President of Operations with several start-ups as well as various managerial positions at Boston Scientific, Guidant, Advanced Technology Materials, Inc., Arctic Cat, Textron, Honeywell Electronic Materials, and Andersen Consulting. Ross is also a business advisor for several early-stage startups and has Mergers and Acquisitions experience. Ross earned a bachelor’s degree in Management from Luther College, a Mini MBA in Industrial Engineering at St. Thomas University, and an Executive Supply Chain Management certification from the University of Wisconsin, Madison. Ross has been certified in Lean Six Sigma, Good Manufacturing Practices, ISO standards, and project management methodologies.
Speaker: George Barnes, MS, CCC-SLP, BCS-S is a board-certified specialist in swallowing and swallowing disorders. He brings dysphagia knowledge to those who need it, helping to change lives. George is passionate about making education useful and providing accessible, quality care. With a deep appreciation for the joy and connection that food brings to our lives, he has dedicated his life to helping others experience this simple yet deeply rooted pleasure.
Please note: The NFOSD is a nonprofit patient advocacy organization. We do not endorse specific products, treatments, or brands. The NFOSD does not provide person-specific medical advice or treatment recommendations. This presentation is for informational purposes only, and does not intend to substitute professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Never modify your treatment plan without consulting with your healthcare team. If you need assistance identifying a swallowing disorder specialist, please contact us at info@nfosd.com.