Cost of Endoscopy in India

What is Endoscopy?

Endoscopy is a medical procedure that enables doctors to look inside your body using a thin, flexible tube with a tiny camera and a light at the end. The doctor carefully inserts the tube through your mouth, nose or bottom depending on which body part needs to be examined. Endoscopy helps find problems like ulcers, inflammation or tumors in the areas like stomach or intestines. It is a quick, cost effective and non-surgical method to diagnose the exact cause of the condition. 

Types of Endoscopy and Endoscopy Estimate Cost

The cost of endoscopy is INR 1000 to INR 3000, but the cost estimate may vary depending on various external factors such as type of procedure, doctor’s fee, location etc which are discussed below:

1.  Upper Gastrointestinal (GI) Endoscopy: To diagnose esophagus, stomach and upper part of the small intestine. Its cost may be INR 4000 to INR 8000.

2. Colonoscopy: To examine the colon and rectum and it may cost you around INR 7000 to INR 20000. 

3. Sigmoidoscopy: To examine the sigmoid colon and rectum. The cost of Sigmoidoscopy is INR 5000 to INR 12000. 

4. Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP): To examine and treat bile ducts, gallbladder and pancreas. Its cost is around INR 12000 to INR 18000.

5. Capsule Endoscopy: To examine the small intestine and it may cost you around INR 60,000 to INR 1,80,000. 

6. Bronchoscopy: To look inside the airways and lungs and the cost of bronchoscopy is INR 6000 to INR 15000.

7. Cystoscopy: To examine the bladder and urinary tract. The cost of cystoscopy is INR 6000 to INR 15000.

8. Laproscopy: To examine organs in the abdomen and pelvis using small incisions. Cost is INR 10000 to INR 50000.

9. Hysteroscopy: To look inside the uterus and it costs around INR 8000 to INR 18000.

10. Arthroscopy: To examine and treat joint problems and it may cost around INR 15000 to INR 35000. 

What Happens During Endoscopy?

Before the procedure

Before the procedure, you will need to follow specific instructions such as fasting for a few hours and cleansing your colon. The doctor will help you understand the procedure and ask you to sign a consent form. Then the doctor will give you anesthesia to relax you during the procedure (sedation may vary depending on the type of procedure. 

During the procedure

During the procedure, the doctor will insert a thin, flexible tube with a camera through your mouth, nose and rectum depending on the body part being examined. The camera transmits images to a monitor, allowing the doctor to examine and diagnose issues like inflammation, bleeding or tumors. The procedure will take around 15-20 minutes. 

After the procedure

After the procedure, you will be monitored as the sedative wears off. The doctor may suggest some specific instructions such as avoiding certain activities. If the doctor took biopsies (tissue sample examination), you may need to wait a few days for proper results. Most people can return to their normal routine within a day or two.

Why Does a Doctor Recommend an Endoscopy Test?

• To find the cause of symptoms: Like stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, heartburn, or trouble swallowing.

• To check for diseases: Such as ulcers, swelling, bleeding, or tumors.

• To take a sample (biopsy): For testing infections or signs of cancer.

• To treat problems: Remove polyps, stop bleeding, or clear blockages.

• To monitor health: Check the progress of treatment or previous conditions.

• Safe and simple: It helps doctors look inside the body without surgery.

Does Endoscopy Cost Covered in Health Insurance?

Yes, in many cases, endoscopy tests are covered by health insurance, especially when it is recommended to diagnose severe cases. Coverage may vary depending on the insurance plan, hospital and procedure type. It is important to check with your insurance provider to understand the coverage details, pre-authorisation requirements and out of the pocket expenses like copays (fixed service fee) and deductibles (Pre-insurance payment). 

What are the Factors Affecting the Endoscopy Cost?

There are various factors which are affecting the final cost of the endoscopy in India:

• Type of Endoscopy: Costs vary based on the procedure, such as upper GI endoscopy, colonoscopy, or capsule endoscopy.

• Hospital or Clinic: Charges differ between private hospitals, clinics, and government healthcare facilities.

• Doctor’s Expertise: Highly experienced specialists may charge more for the procedure.

• Anesthesia and Sedation: Additional costs if sedation or general anesthesia is required.

• Biopsy or Treatment: Costs increase if a biopsy, polyp removal, or other treatments are performed.

• Diagnostic Tools: Advanced equipment or imaging techniques may add to the cost.

• Location: Prices can vary depending on the city or region.

• Insurance Coverage: Out-of-pocket expenses depend on insurance plans and coverage.