Private endoscopy in Poole

Private endoscopy services at Harbour Hospital in Poole

We provide diagnostic procedures for a variety of Gastroenterology conditions, including; colonoscopy, flexible sigmoidoscopy, oesophago-gastro-duodenoscopy (OGD), banding of haemorrhoids and a combined procedure of colonoscopy and gastroscopy.

We provide a calm and welcoming atmosphere, with patient privacy and dignity at the forefront of our patient care and the department’s service.

Patients are treated by a network of specialist consultants and this is complemented by our experienced nursing team who are specialists in all aspects of medical and surgical nursing.

Together, we take pride in offering exceptional levels of patient care.

Why might you need an endoscopy?

An endoscopy might be suggested if you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms:

• Difficulty swallowing
• Abdominal painPersistent nausea, vomiting or diarrhoea
• Unexplained weight loss
• Vomiting blood
• Blood in stoolsChest pain that’s unrelated to heart conditions

Private endoscopy treatments at Harbour Hospital in Poole

We offer and perform several different types of endoscopy procedures, though the type of endoscopy you have will depend on the symptoms you’re experiencing.

• Gastroscopy – Also known as an Upper GI endoscopy, this is used to examine the oesophagus, stomach or first part of the small intestine
• Colonoscopy – This is used to examine the bowel
• Flexible Sigmoidoscopy – This is used to examine the left side of the bowel

Other endoscopy services offered in Poole

• Banding of haemorrhoids information
• Colonoscopy information
• Upper GI endoscopy (gastroscopy) & Colonoscopy
• Upper GI endoscopy (gastroscopy) & Dilation Information
• Upper GI endoscopy (gastroscopy) information

What is a colonoscopy?

A colonoscopy is a procedure that allows a specialist to examine the inside of your large bowel and rectum using a flexible tube fitted with a small camera. The camera transmits detailed images to a monitor, allowing your consultant to assess the bowel lining closely.

This investigation is commonly used to explore a range of digestive symptoms and can help identify inflammation, polyps, bleeding, or other abnormalities within the bowel. It remains one of the most effective ways to assess bowel health and investigate gastrointestinal concerns. 

How to prepare for an endoscopy

If you need an endoscopy, your consultant will give you instructions to make sure you’re fully prepared before the procedure takes place.

It’s always important to tell your consultant about any medication you’re taking. You may need to stop taking certain medication, such as blood-thinners. However, it’s important not to stop taking your prescription medication unless your consultant advises you to do so.

You should also make your consultant aware of any allergies you have, as well as your previous medical history.

Most endoscopies require the patient to stop eating food or drinking water four to eight hours before the procedure, so your stomach is empty. You may also be given laxatives to help clear your system.

What happens during an endoscopy?

Depending on which part of your body needs to be looked at, an endoscope may be inserted through your mouth or back passage.

You may have a local anaesthetic to numb one part of your body or you might be offered a mild sedative or General anaesthetic to help you relax.

Is an endoscopy painful? An endoscopy isn’t painful, but most people experience a little bit of discomfort similar to a sore throat or indigestion.

What happens after an endoscopy?

After an endoscopy, you will need to rest for about an hour to let the effect of any anaesthetic or sedative wear off. Once this has worn off, you should be able to go home. You don’t need to stay overnight for this procedure.

After an anaesthetic or sedation, you will need to be taken home by a friend or relative – you shouldn’t drive for the rest of the day.

Your doctor will advise you on when you’ll find out the results from your procedure. If necessary, you may be referred to a different specialist for ongoing diagnosis or treatment.

How much does an endoscopy cost at Harbour Hospital in Poole?

The cost of your endoscopy will depend on various factors, including which type of endoscopy you are having, whether any additional procedures are included such as a biopsy, and whether it’s part of a wider treatment plan.

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.

Why choose The Harbour Hospital in Poole for your endoscopy?

When you choose to go private with Circle Health Group, you can expect:

• Flexible appointment times to fit your schedule
• Bespoke, consultant-led treatment plans tailored to your individual needs
• Support from the same compassionate clinical team from beginning to end
• Transparent, fixed-price packages with aftercare included
• Flexible payment optionsto help spread the cost of your care

Going private for healthcare provides faster access to a vast range of treatment options, greater flexibility in choosing specialists, and more personalised care.

How to book a private endoscopy in Poole

To book a consultation to discuss endoscopy with a gastroenterologist near you, use our online booking system, or give us a call and one of our dedicated advisors will help you find an appointment time that suits you.

If you want to book directly into an endoscopy procedure, usually you will need a referral from a GP or other healthcare professional. Whether you are a private or NHS patient, your GP can refer you to our hospital to have your endoscopy. We will then send the results back to your GP.

If you are already a patient at The Harbour Hospital and you need an endoscopy, your consultant will refer you to our endoscopy team to arrange the procedure.

If you don’t have a referral but believe you need an endoscopy, you may be able to self-refer. Give us a call and we can advise you, and if you do need a referral we can help you get one quickly.