Bowel screening

In Scotland, those over the age of 50 will receive a bowel screening test kit through the post by the NHS. Once you return the kit, you'll usually receive the results within 2 weeks. This test is also available at Albyn Hospital, and is open to anyone of any age who may have concerns.

Screening helps to detect certain bowel abnormalities at an early stage, which increases the likelihood of successful treatment. If you have received a positive Faecal Immunochemical Test (FIT), you will require a colonoscopy. 

What does the bowel screening service involve?

You will be given an appointment to be reviewed by one of our nursing team to assess your suitability for the colonoscopy, and to discuss what the procedure will entail.

At the appointment you will be given a date for the colonoscopy. This procedure can usually be performed within 14 days of your first appointment.

A colonoscopy is a procedure that looks at the inside of your large bowel (colon) using a tiny camera. If the consultant finds anything of concern during the procedure, they can perform a biopsy (removing small pieces of tissue) to help make a diagnosis. Sometimes a polyp (small growth) is the cause of the problem and the consultant may be able to remove it during the procedure.

What to expect on the day of your colonoscopy:

You will meet one of our private bowel screening consultants who will carry out the procedure.

The colonoscopy takes place within one of our theatre rooms and will take approximately 45 minutes.

The consultant will be able to give you some preliminary results and may recommend a scan (CT scan). Where possible, this will be performed on the day of the procedure.

The results of any biopsies taken are usually available within two weeks.

• Faecal Immunochemical Test (FIT) - £91.34
• Colonoscopy without sedation - £1,300
• Colonoscopy with sedation - £1,400
• CT scan - price on request

Prices are correct as from October 2021 for self-paying patients only. Consultant fees not included. 

• Fast access to the colonoscopy procedure within 14 days
• A team of expert private bowel screening consultants to determine an appropriate treatment plan
• Price package includes initial assessment, colonoscopy and treatment plan
• Access to further investigations if required

Accessing private healthcare is easy, whether you choose to pay directly or use private medical insurance.

If you are paying for yourself, we can usually offer an upfront cost which you can then choose to pay in full or access one of our easy payment options.

If you have insurance, we can arrange direct settlement with your insurance provider, although you should check in advance to see if your treatment is covered. For more information, visit our private medical insurance page.