A colonoscopy is a medical and diagnostic procedure that allows doctors to identify rectal and colorectal abnormalities. In a colonoscopy, a flexible tube known as a colonoscopy is inserted into the rectum. This tube is usually ½-inch in diameter with a camera attached at the end. If you’re considering this procedure, it is best to know the cost of a colonoscopy in Singapore.
1. Colonoscopy Cost In Singapore
In Singapore, you can choose to have a colonoscopy at a public hospital or through private practice. Public hospitals are typically cheaper compared to private practices. However, a private clinic offers more personal and faster access to the required services.
Wherever you choose to have your colonoscopy, you may expect to spend around $800 to $2,600. This price range is already inclusive of screening and surgery costs after that.
Fortunately, Singapore’s national medical savings scheme, MediSave, can cover part of the costs of a colonoscopy wherever recommended. You will not have to worry about covering the bulk of these medical costs during a screening.
2. Why You Might Need A Colonoscopy
Your surgeon or doctor may recommend a colonoscopy screening if you exhibit rectal/colorectal symptoms. However, even if you do not have any symptoms, it’s still beneficial to have one.
A colonoscopy helps identify cancers and colon polyps while they are still treatable. You should undergo a colonoscopy if you are 50 years older and above with a family history of colorectal conditions.
For unsure individuals, here’s a list of symptoms that may require you to take a colonoscopy:
- Pain in the abdomen
- Indigestion
- Diarrhoea
- Gas
- Stomach cramps
- Extreme fatigue
- Bloating
- Rectal bleeding
- Blood presence in the stool
- General change in bowel habits
Colonoscopy may also be done to detect these colon conditions and anomalies:
- Colon Cancer – Colon cancer is often referred to as colorectal cancer, which affects older adults. As you grow older, you’re at a higher risk of developing this cancer. Colon cancers typically start as small and noncancerous (benign) lumps inside the colon. With a colonoscopy, a doctor can assess the extent to which your colon cancer has developed.
- Inflammatory Bowel Diseases (IBS) – You may also require colonoscopy to treat IBS. Two common types of IBS include Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. These affect the colon and the lower part of the gastrointestinal tract / small intestine, respectively.
3. What To Expect During A Colonoscopy Procedure?
Before the procedure, you will be asked to change into a medical gown. A doctor will provide anaesthesia or a sedative to help you relax, so that you will not feel any discomfort during the procedure.
A colonoscopy takes 20 to 60 minutes to finish. Your doctor will ask you to lie on your side as they insert a small scope or tube inside your rectum. They can identify whether you have polyps or other colorectal abnormalities.
Polyps are small clumps of cells that develop inside the colon. Often, these are harmless, but they may lead to colorectal cancer. If your doctor spots any polyps, they will remove them as a preventative measure against colon cancer.
4. Two Types Of Colonoscopy
Colonoscopies can be further divided into two: screening colonoscopy and diagnostic colonoscopy. It is best to talk with a colorectal surgeon about which of these two you may need.
Screening Colonoscopy
A screening colonoscopy is a preventative screening to observe your colon and ensure its health. You will need this type of colonoscopy if you have any of the following:
- Colorectal cancer symptoms
- Family history of colon cancer/polyps
- Personal medical history of colon cancer/polyps
Diagnostic Colonoscopy
You may require a diagnostic colonoscopy if you show tell-tale symptoms of colon cancer:
- Iron deficiency anaemia
- Recurring abdominal pain
- Rectal bleeding
- Blood in the stool
- Drastic change in bowel habits that persist for a few days or more
- Personal / family history of polyps or colon cancer
In some cases, a screening colonoscopy can turn into a diagnostic one. The doctor may discover and remove polyps/mass of growth that need to undergo a biopsy.
Conclusion On The Cost Of A Colonoscopy In Singapore
As mentioned, the cost of a colonoscopy in Singapore ranges from $800 to $2,600. With a colonoscopy screening, your doctor will know if you need treatment for rectal abnormalities or colorectal cancer.
Are you looking for a colorectal surgeon in Singapore? Dr Q. M. Leong’s expertise in colonoscopy screenings, colorectal surgeries, hemorrhoids, peptic ulcers, and other gastrointestinal diseases can help. Get in touch with him now for a medical consultation. You may also enquire about other services and other colonoscopy screening costs.
Frequently Asked Questions On The Cost Of A Colonoscopy In Singapore
Yes. After government subsidies are deducted from your medical bill, a colonoscopy may cost an average of $1,500 in Singapore.
Average-risk individuals should be screened for colorectal cancer when they reach the age of 50 and above.
Yes, your doctor will show you the pictures he has taken during the colonoscopy. If polyps have been removed, your doctor will see you again for the histology results.
A colonoscopy procedure may seem daunting for some, but most individuals can tolerate it well. You will be given an intravenous injection to keep you relaxed and comfortable.
