Doctors may require a colonoscopy test for diagnosis and screening. The procedure has a starting price of ₱11,000 but is more expensive with additional instruments. Polyps may be discovered and removed during the actual procedure and could reach up to ₱16,000 and above. Expect Philhealth to cover a part of the total expenses together with HMO benefits.
| Hospitals with Colonoscopy | Price (Php) |
|---|---|
| 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 |
It is best to inquire about the latest cost of the procedure in a hospital of your choice. Contact any of these medical centers to ask about the exact price.
Usually, the cost of colonoscopy is cheaper in government hospitals. In other facilities, the rate may be as low as Php 5,000 without a reader’s fee.
- East Avenue Medical Center
- Philippine Heart Center
- NKTI
- PGH
You may want to inquire about the cheap colonoscopy rates of PGH, East Avenue Medical Center or NKTI. These hospitals may offer a relatively affordable rate.
The procedure is highly specialized and it is not usually included in most HMO packages. However, you may maximize your benefits if the procedure is a part of the treatment plan of your current confinement.
Some LGUs may offer special health programs for those who need colonoscopy. In this case, you may find a nearby government hospital that offers the service for qualified patients.
Colonoscopy 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?
Colonoscopy involves 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 procedure.
An enema process may be required if the colon was not clean enough before colonoscopy. If you prefer a colonoscopy with 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 during the procedure
- 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 colonoscopy 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 have a colonoscopy with anesthesia.
Polypectomy Colonoscopy
Take note that some machines and devices may include a cutter instrument attached to the colonoscope. The procedure is called polypectomy.
This saves time and money instead of having a basic colonoscopy. The price of such procedure is higher by about Php 3,000 or more.
Who Should Have The Screening Test
Having a routine colonoscopy 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 colonoscopy as part of screening recommended by the doctor.
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