Colonoscopy Costs For Check?

[atelko]

Hi,

I would like to know how much a coloscopy would cost me w/o insurance (will get one soon I guess) in a good clinic for a check up?

[rak sa_ngop]

Just happen to have a 2009 price list for the BNH hospital and they quote a 'virtual colonoscopy' for 14,250 baht.

I had a 'real' colonoscopy there about 2 years ago and I think the price was about the same (15K)

I am not sure what a 'virtual' colonoscopy is exactly but maybe it is less invasive???

[atelko]

Just happen to have a 2009 price list for the BNH hospital and they quote a 'virtual colonoscopy' for 14,250 baht.

I had a 'real' colonoscopy there about 2 years ago and I think the price was about the same (15K)

I am not sure what a 'virtual' colonoscopy is exactly but maybe it is less invasive???

thanks for the information...

I do not exactly know how a virtual colonoscopy works. I heard that it doesn´t have to be put something in your rear end and that´s why you it is painless and you don´t need any pain killers or narcosis.

sounds great, but the only thing that is not good with a virtual colonoscopy is that the doc can´t see whatever he is searching for and it´s smaller than 8mm.

Do you know when to check yourself frequently? All 1,2,3,4 years?

Actually people should start checking theirself in their mitd 30´s, but especially in their 50´s they should check theirself at least once a year...

I am in my mid twenties, but think it won´t be bad to check myself with my age...

[lordsux]

This is the reply that I recieved from Bangkok Hospital today

Thank you for your enquiry and your interest in the Bangkok Hospital Medical Center.

At present we offer the package for Colonoscopy is 12,500 Baht, you should make the appointment to see our gastrointestinal specialist for consultation and preparation before colonoscopy. The procedure will perform as an out-patient case. However, in case doctor finds any abnormality during the procedure and need biopsy done. It will cost another 1,500 Baht /specimen. If the doctor finds polyp which need polypectomy (removal of a polyp). It will cost another 7,000-8,000 Baht/ polyp, and the patient may need to stay in the hospital for 1-2 days so the cost of treatment would be higher.

If surgery or other interventional procedures are to be performed it will be necessary for you to have a general health assessment to be sure that you are in good health and are a good candidate for the proposed procedure.

[kamalabob2]

I had this procedure done in 2005 at Bangkok Christian Hospital. The price including the anastegialogist fee at that time was less than BNH, Bangkok Hospital, and Bumrungrad. The service was professional. I am not anxious to repeat this test but if you are at "that age" consider a quote from

http://www.bkkchristianhosp.th.com/main.asp?lang=E

They are not kidding about the extra strength laxative you take the night prior to that morning test.

You can compare this hospitals health check up fees to other bangkok hospitals at

http://www.bkkchristianhosp.th.com/main_se...n=34〈=E

[johnnymoretti]

Just happen to have a 2009 price list for the BNH hospital and they quote a 'virtual colonoscopy' for 14,250 baht.

I had a 'real' colonoscopy there about 2 years ago and I think the price was about the same (15K)

I am not sure what a 'virtual' colonoscopy is exactly but maybe it is less invasive???

...

I do not exactly know how a virtual colonoscopy works. I heard that it doesn´t have to be put something in your rear end and that´s why you it is painless and you don´t need any pain killers or narcosis.

sounds great, but the only thing that is not good with a virtual colonoscopy is that the doc can´t see whatever he is searching for and it´s smaller than 8mm....

I turned 50 earlier this month, so I'm in the shopping mode for a test before returning to the US in 6 weeks.

FYI from the Bangkok Pattaya website:

Colonoscopy

Colonoscopy allows the physician to investigate the entire large intestine, from the lowest part, to the rectum, all the way up through the colon to the lower end of the small intestine. This procedure is used to detect early signs of cancer in the colon and rectum. It can also be used to diagnose the causes of changes in bowel habits. Colonoscopy enables the physician to detect inflamed tissue, abnormal growths, ulcers and bleeding

Virtual colonoscopy (VC)

Virtual colonoscopy is a medical imaging procedure which uses x-rays and computers to produce two - and tree-dimensional images of the colon (large intestine) from the lowest part, the rectum, all the way to the lower end of the small intestine and display them on a screen. Virtual Colonoscopy provides clearer, more detailed images than a conventional x-ray using a barium enema, sometime called a lower gastrointestinal (GI) series. It also takes less time than either a conventional colonoscopy or a lower GI series. Since it does not use a colonoscopy, no sedation is needed and the patient can return to his/her usual activities or go home after the procedure without the aid of another person.

[malcolminthemiddle]

I had the colonoscopy procedure done at Bumrungrad as a precautionary measure at 50, no symptoms. The procedure was painless and done as an outpatient, you are asleep during the whole process. The doctor removes any polyps at the same time. Got there at 7:00 am finished by 12:00, most of the time spent waiting around.

Unless there are symptoms, can't see the benefit of a virtual colonoscopy?

[johnnymoretti]

I had the colonoscopy procedure done at Bumrungrad as a precautionary measure at 50, no symptoms. The procedure was painless and done as an outpatient, you are asleep during the whole process. The doctor removes any polyps at the same time. Got there at 7:00 am finished by 12:00, most of the time spent waiting around.

Unless there are symptoms, can't see the benefit of a virtual colonoscopy?

When did you have the procedure done and what was the cost? Was the cost a promotional price?

Thanks in advance!

[malcolminthemiddle]

I had the colonoscopy procedure done at Bumrungrad as a precautionary measure at 50, no symptoms. The procedure was painless and done as an outpatient, you are asleep during the whole process. The doctor removes any polyps at the same time. Got there at 7:00 am finished by 12:00, most of the time spent waiting around.

Unless there are symptoms, can't see the benefit of a virtual colonoscopy?

When did you have the procedure done and what was the cost? Was the cost a promotional price?

Thanks in advance!

The procedure was carried out during January 2008, if I remember rightly the list price (no promotion) was around 15K which included a video, pathological report and extra sedation medicine to knock me out.

My advice to any one contemplating the procedure is don't hesitate.

[phetaroi]

I had a virtual colonoscopy done in the States several years ago. I did quite a bit of research before deciding whether to go for the traditional version or the virtual version. For example, it is true that the virtual colonoscopy "misses" about 3% of the polyps. But, from the research I did, so does a regular colonoscopy...just a different 3-5%. Also. of polyps are found during a virtual colonoscopy, then you have to have the regular one done to have them removed. Either way, you still have to do almost the same preps (powerful laxatives, etc.). One of the main things to think about is radiation. One major study I read -- in my view -- basically said that the first VC you have done does little to increase the liklihood of cancer because of radiation, but that each successive VC you have done causes an exponential increase in cancer risk due to radiation.

One thing I liked about mine is that it was full body. It checked so many things and I was able to watch the results. Mine was "clear" except for finding an internal cyst. The type of cyst it found is something typical in over-50s people, and harmless, but the benefit of knowing about it was that if I began to experience pain in a particular area, I would know to advise the doctor of the cyst.

[billp]

Actually people should start checking theirself in their mitd 30´s, but especially in their 50´s they should check theirself at least once a year...

If you've ever had a colonoscopy, you will know that you don't want to undergo this very often. Current wisdom is to start getting this screening in your 50s and if it comes out negative, repeat at 5 or 10 year intervals. Certainly not "once a year."

[phetaroi]

Actually people should start checking theirself in their mitd 30´s, but especially in their 50´s they should check theirself at least once a year...

If you've ever had a colonoscopy, you will know that you don't want to undergo this very often. Current wisdom is to start getting this screening in your 50s and if it comes out negative, repeat at 5 or 10 year intervals. Certainly not "once a year."

I agree. In fact, there is a very real danger in puncturing the colon, something that happens far more often than people realize.

There are other tests to do in between occasional colonoscopies. For example, a detailed stool sample evaluation can be done with no discomfort at all and is relatively inexpensive. It can find many things, such as blood in the stool, a sign that more invasive tests may be necessary.

[prodriver]

Just to throw in my 'two pennyworth'. I've had two colonoscopies in Thailand. One at the Government Hospital Siriraj where I was put out under a general anaesthetic....great, didn't feel a thing! The second time was done at the private hospital 'Thonburi' where I was awake during the procedure.....an extremely unpleasant experience!!

[Crushdepth]

The second time was done at the private hospital 'Thonburi' where I was awake during the procedure.....an extremely unpleasant experience!! shock1.gif

It's improved a lot in recent years, they've gotten a lot better at doping you up on drugs.

[johnnymoretti]

This is a great thread and I'm happy to get feedback.

I've contacted BNH in Pattaya and they have a promotion for a colonoscopy for 12,500 baht (regularly 25,000). I'm making my appointment. The price does not include any biopsy or meds if needed, though the cost of those is small.

Will update my experience if anyone wants to know how things went (hospital review).

J.

[JSixpack]

This is a great thread and I'm happy to get feedback.

I've contacted BNH in Pattaya and they have a promotion for a colonoscopy for 12,500 baht (regularly 25,000). I'm making my appointment. The price does not include any biopsy or meds if needed, though the cost of those is small.

Will update my experience if anyone wants to know how things went (hospital review).

J.

There's a BNH in Pattaya? That's news. Whereabouts?

[Bagwan]

A friend of mine had this procedure carried out last year at the Queen Sirikit Hospital in Sattahip. He said it cost him 300 baht. Worth an enquiry?

[Spaniel]

This is a great thread and I'm happy to get feedback.

I've contacted BNH in Pattaya and they have a promotion for a colonoscopy for 12,500 baht (regularly 25,000). I'm making my appointment. The price does not include any biopsy or meds if needed, though the cost of those is small.

Will update my experience if anyone wants to know how things went (hospital review).

J.

There's a BNH in Pattaya? That's news. Whereabouts?

I dont think their is a BNH in Pattaya. My guess is he is referring to Bangkok Pattaya Hospital.

[ballbreaker]

I dont think their is a BNH in Pattaya. My guess is he is referring to Bangkok Pattaya Hospital.

You are right but does it really matter about name because a company called Bangkok Dusit Medical Services own outright or controlling interest in BNH and Bangkok Pattaya Hospital. They also control 3 Samitivej hospitals plus another dozen or so hospitals around the country.

[Bagwan]

I dont think their is a BNH in Pattaya. My guess is he is referring to Bangkok Pattaya Hospital.

You are right but does it really matter about name because a company called Bangkok Dusit Medical Services own outright or controlling interest in BNH and Bangkok Pattaya Hospital. They also control 3 Samitivej hospitals plus another dozen or so hospitals around the country.

Different names, same crappy scams?

[wpcoe]

FWIW, the hospital is now known as "Bangkok Hospital Pattaya". I think the are standardizing (have standardized?) the upcountry affiliate hospitals to be named "Bangkok Hospital xxxxx" where xxxxx is the location. Witness also: "Bangkok Hospital Phuket."

[camerata]

The Daily Mail had an article about virtual colonoscopy yesterday.

The BNH (Bangkok) info is here and the current promotion price of 9,990 baht until December 31st, 2009 is here.

It seems to me if you have no family history of the condition, it might be less hassle and less dangerous to try the virtual colonscopy first.

[SantiSuk]

Seems like it is very cheap here in LoS. I had it done twice at a London private hospital and it costs about 60.000 baht there for an outpatient visit (albeit nicely done with one hour's private room prep time and two hour's private room recovery time and lots of fawning, tea and cookies).

Once at age 52 when routine med found blood in the stool. A couple of polyps found so doctor recommended a revisit in two years time. Left it three years and they found one more small polyp and the doctor said everything's normal - no need to come for another 5 years. Given that Harley Street consultants just love to take your (insurance company's) money I think that is good testimony to the need to avoid getting sucked into to having them too frequently (reference to the annual comment earlier on)

Edited October 19, 2009 by SantiSuk

[Old Man River]

I had the colonoscopy procedure done at Bumrungrad as a precautionary measure at 50, no symptoms. The procedure was painless and done as an outpatient, you are asleep during the whole process. The doctor removes any polyps at the same time. Got there at 7:00 am finished by 12:00, most of the time spent waiting around.

Unless there are symptoms, can't see the benefit of a virtual colonoscopy?

When did you have the procedure done and what was the cost? Was the cost a promotional price?

Thanks in advance!

The procedure was carried out during January 2008, if I remember rightly the list price (no promotion) was around 15K which included a video, pathological report and extra sedation medicine to knock me out.

My advice to any one contemplating the procedure is don't hesitate.

Current price at Bamrungrad is between THB 20 and 25 thousand.

[Dakhar]

I had it done at Thamasat about 2 years back. I have chonic cholotis) Any how, cost me 700 baht, the doc had a great since of humor and did his training in Houston Tex.

[framesolution]

I just had a colonoscopy done at Bumrungrad 2 days ago. I have had lower left abdominal pain ever since. When I called the hospital to inquire about it, I was told that many people experience a certain amount of discomfort or pain immediately following colonoscopy procedures, but that it should subside after 2-3 days. The pain comes and goes, but I'm starting to become concerned that the degree of pain when its present has not lessened. Has anybody else experienced this after a colonoscopy -- especially at Bumrungrad?

[mauiguy90]

Current price at Bamrungrad is between THB 20 and 25 thousand.

Went to Bamrungrad recently for a checkup. Inquired about prices for a colonoscopy and was told it was between 20,000-25000 baht. Had to see a doctor prior to the procedure which cost about 1800 baht with meds for the procedure. Then was told that the procedure would cost between 25,000 to 30,000 in addition to the pre-exam fees. Eventually ended up doing the same procedure at BNH for 14,000 baht.

[dragonfly94]

I just had a colonoscopy done at Bumrungrad 2 days ago. I have had lower left abdominal pain ever since. When I called the hospital to inquire about it, I was told that many people experience a certain amount of discomfort or pain immediately following colonoscopy procedures, but that it should subside after 2-3 days. The pain comes and goes, but I'm starting to become concerned that the degree of pain when its present has not lessened. Has anybody else experienced this after a colonoscopy -- especially at Bumrungrad?

I have had four with about 15 polyps removed, all done in the UK as I don't trust them here. I have had some discomfort, if it does not go away with in time they say then go back. VC is nowhere near as good according to my consultant, but I guess it's a good option if you have no family history, my mum and sister had it.

[framesolution]

I just had a colonoscopy done at Bumrungrad 2 days ago. I have had lower left abdominal pain ever since. When I called the hospital to inquire about it, I was told that many people experience a certain amount of discomfort or pain immediately following colonoscopy procedures, but that it should subside after 2-3 days. The pain comes and goes, but I'm starting to become concerned that the degree of pain when its present has not lessened. Has anybody else experienced this after a colonoscopy -- especially at Bumrungrad?

I have had four with about 15 polyps removed, all done in the UK as I don't trust them here. I have had some discomfort, if it does not go away with in time they say then go back. VC is nowhere near as good according to my consultant, but I guess it's a good option if you have no family history, my mum and sister had it.

is it you don't trust Bumrungrad specifically or all hospitals in Thailand?

[Sheryl]

I just had a colonoscopy done at Bumrungrad 2 days ago. I have had lower left abdominal pain ever since. When I called the hospital to inquire about it, I was told that many people experience a certain amount of discomfort or pain immediately following colonoscopy procedures, but that it should subside after 2-3 days. The pain comes and goes, but I'm starting to become concerned that the degree of pain when its present has not lessened. Has anybody else experienced this after a colonoscopy -- especially at Bumrungrad?

As they told you, some discomfort afterwards is common and may persist for up to 2-3 days. The question is whether this is what you are experiencing or whether there has been a complication, hard to say without more information i.e. were tissue samples taken or a polyp etc removed during the procedure? How severe is the pain? Is your abdomen tedner to palpation (lie comfortably on your back, knees bent and pressdown with your hand flat in each of four areas using belly button as the center: upper right, lower right, upper left, lower left). Do you have any fever or voimiting? Was this done just as part of a check-up or do you have known bowel disease, if so, what?

The "normal" pain is often due to trapped gas that was introduced into the colon during the procedure. It will feel similiar to the cramps one may get with diarrhea and will be intermittent, and passing gas or stool will relieve it, at least temporarily. If polyps or tissue samples were removed, there may also be pain from those site.

Some people find lying on their stomachs and/or hot baths help; if not feasible to soak in a hot tub, apply hot pad.

Signs that it is soemthing more than normal after effects of the procedure would be fever, vomiting, abdominal tenderness (press on it and it really hurts) any of these, see a doctor or go to an ER. If there is no fever, you can eat normally with no vomiting, the pain comes and goes and in between there is no tenderness if you press on the abdomen, then probably just normal post-test discomfort and will ease with time.

This has nothing to do with the hospital that perfromed it and experiences of others who had it done there aren't going to help you much as individuals vary, some have no pain at all and others take days, I have even heard of weeks, for all discomofrt to subside.