If you need Colonoscopy, waiting for diagnosis and treatment can be stressful. This guide explains the conditions that commonly lead to it and how private medical insurance can help you get seen and treated sooner.
What conditions lead to Colonoscopy?
Bowel Cancer Screening, IBD & Change in Bowel Habit
Colonoscopy is the gold standard for examining the large bowel. It is performed to investigate symptoms of bowel cancer (rectal bleeding, change in bowel habit, weight loss), to screen high-risk patients, and to diagnose inflammatory bowel diseases including Crohn's and ulcerative colitis. The procedure also allows removal of polyps before they become cancerous. Early detection of colorectal cancer dramatically improves survival: Stage I cancer has over a 90% five-year survival rate.
How private health insurance can help with Colonoscopy
Private cover provides rapid gastroenterology consultation, same-week colonoscopy at a time of your choice, and pathology results within days – diagnosing bowel conditions months before an NHS diagnostic slot would be available.
Depending on your policy, cover can include:
- Faster access to a specialist consultant
- Diagnostic scans such as MRI, CT, ultrasound and X-ray
- A choice of consultant and private hospital from your insurer's list
- Surgery, hospital stay and, where included, post-treatment physiotherapy or rehabilitation
Cover, limits and exclusions vary between insurers and plans. Most policies don't cover pre-existing or chronic conditions, and you'll usually need a GP referral before claiming. Always check what your policy covers before starting treatment.
How it works
- Get a quote – tell us about yourself and what you want covered, using the form on this page.
- Compare policies – an adviser compares plans from leading UK insurers and recommends suitable options.
- Get covered – choose your plan and start cover once your insurer confirms it. Claims are then made through your insurer.
Want to know more? Read our guides to individual health insurance and family health insurance.
