Doctors may require a colonoscope test for diagnosis and screening purposes. To get the cheapest price, it is best to compare the rates among hospitals in the Philippines.
The price of colonoscopy in the Philippines may start from ₱10,500 to ₱16,000 and above. Some hospitals charge up to Php 18,000 as a package including surgery if necessary.
Hospital Prices
Hospitals | Price (₱) |
---|---|
Asian Hospital | 12,500 |
De Los Santos Medical Center | 10,500 |
Lung Center of the Philippines (Virtual) | 11,500 |
Perpetual Help Medical Center | 13,000 |
Makati Medical Center | 14,000 |
In some cases, the cost will also include the professional fee of the doctor. You may ask your gastroenterologist if he or she also performs the procedure. The total cost may then start from Php 30,000 and above.
Major hospitals with dedicated imaging units offer the procedure. It is best to inquire about the latest cost from a hospital of your choice.
Usually, the cost is cheaper in government owned facilities. A cheap colonoscopy price in public hospitals may start from ₱5,000 excluding reader’s fee.
You may want to inquire about the offerings of PGH, East Avenue Medical Center or NKTI. These hospitals may have a relatively affordable price due to government subsidy.
Philhealth may cover a portion of the procedure especially if it is one of the tests required for a confined patient. As a stand alone diagnostic test, a specific amount may be discounted based on case rate.
See: Tests Covered by Philhealth
HMO Price
Some health cards do not cover the test so you will pay for it upon confirming a schedule. You may wish to inquire from your HMO whether it is included in your benefits. Some of them have diagnostic fee limits of Php 5,000 per member per year.
The procedure is highly specialized and it is not usually included in most HMO packages. However, you may maximize your benefits if it is a part of the treatment plan of your current confinement.
Free Test
Some LGUs may offer special health programs for those who need the test especially under the risk group. In this case, you may find a nearby government hospital that offers the service for qualified patients.
What is Colonoscopy
It is a medical procedure that detects any changes or abnormalities inside the colon. A thin camera tube is inserted into the rectum to view the insides of the intestine. It is similar to endoscopy which views the insides of the stomach.
How is it Done
A thin camera tube inserted into the rectum. Before the procedure, the doctor will provide instructions on the preparation. One of them is the use of laxative so that you will be able to clean out your stomach’s content before the test.
An enema process may be required if the colon was not clean enough before the procedure. If you prefer using anesthesia, the cost may be a little higher as it will involve a separate procedure. However, it would provide a more comfortable procedure for patients who are sensitive to the test.
What to Expect
- You will be provided with a comfortable bed or platform in order to start the procedure.
- You will lie on your side to allow the camera to have better inserting position
- Depending on the doctor’s recommendation, the procedure may last for several minutes until it covers all the regions of the colon.
Benefits and Disadvantages
One of the primary reasons of having the diagnostic test is to identify any abnormalities inside the colon. An early detection of polyps or lesions will increase the chance of treating an early disease.
On the other hand, it may be uncomfortable for some especially that it will involve an instrument being inserted into the anus. However, there is an option to include anesthesia in the test.
Polypectomy Colonoscopy
Take note that some machines and devices may include a cutter instrument attached to the colonoscope. The procedure is called polypectomy.
See: Polypectomy Prices
This saves time and money instead of having the standard one. The price is higher by about Php 3,000 or more.
Discounted Price
For those with senior citizen IDs, you may be able to get a lower price as a benefit. Simply provide your ID and booklet upon booking for an appointment. In some cases, this would mean up to 20% discount from the regular price of the test.
Who Should Have The Screening Test
Having a routine diagnostics may be recommended for those who wish to make it a preventive procedure against colon cancer.
Doctors may recommend the procedure for people at least 50 years old and above. It can detect early cases of colon cancer. However, those who are at higher risk of contracting the disease may undergo yearly screening recommended by the doctor.
References: Mayoclinic
Last Updated on May 12, 2024 by Medical Pinas
About the Author: MedicalPinas has several years of experience in publishing articles to help Filipinos find medical services and their estimated prices. It strives to provide the most accurate info available through extensive research. Info may change without notice. This site is not affiliated with any of the mentioned brands/companies and does not represent the same.
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