Overview
Colonoscopy is a safe and effective method that is used for the diagnosis of colon cancer and many other colon-related ailments. India offers advanced diagnosis facilities for different ailments. The medical infrastructure in the country is promising and evolving at a fraction of the prices charged in several Western countries.
Colonoscopy test price in India is relatively lower than in many other countries of the world. However, it is important to understand the factors affecting the cost of colonoscopy in India. This will ensure that you get the best diagnostic assistance without compromising on quality. To ensure that domestic and international patients get the best guidance on colonoscopy costs in India, it is essential to consider hospital reputation, doctor expertise, and inclusions in the quoted price.
Since it is a vital diagnostic procedure for examining the large intestine (including the colon and rectum), it is important to pick the right diagnostic centres for the procedure. Any individuals facing gastrointestinal symptoms can opt for preventive scanning as recommended by the doctors. India has advanced equipment for accurate colonoscopy and a team of trained gastroenterologists to provide high-quality colonoscopy support.
What is a Colonoscopy?
Colonoscopy is an endoscopic procedure used to identify gastrointestinal issues in the large intestine of the patient. In this procedure, a long and flexible tube with has camera attached to it is inserted into the patient’s intestine via the rectum route. This helps in viewing the innermost layering of the colon. With this procedure, the diagnostic experts can help identify the following abnormalities in the colon:
- Polyps
- Inflammation
- Ulcers
- Tumors
- Bleeding sites
If the doctors feel the need for further tests of the cancerous malignancies, biopsy samples can also be taken during the colonoscopy procedure.
Who Should Get a Colonoscopy in India?
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is increasingly affecting younger populations in India, making early detection crucial. While formal national screening guidelines are still evolving, medical experts recommend colonoscopy for individuals at higher risk, even before the age of 50.
High-Risk Groups:
- Family History: If a close relative (parent, sibling, or child) was diagnosed with CRC before 50, consider starting screenings around age 20, with follow-ups every 1–3 years.
- Genetic Syndromes: Conditions like Lynch syndrome or familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) significantly increase CRC risk. Individuals with these syndromes should begin screenings early and continue them regularly.
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Those with conditions like ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease are at higher risk and may need more frequent screenings.
Colonoscopy Procedure
The process of colonoscopy is not very complex. However, it requires a simple three-step process including preparation, procedure, and recovery. Here’s how the process flow goes:
- A day before the treatment, the patient is prescribed a laxative for bowel cleansing.
- On the day of the procedure, local anesthesia is used, and in other cases, the procedure is completed without sedatives.
- The duration of the procedure is around 30-60 minutes.
- After the colonoscopy procedure, rest and follow-up care are essential for recovery.
- The patient is recommended to rest for 1-2 hours and is suggested to take a light diet for 24 hours.
- The patient can return to a normal lifestyle in the time period of 1-2 days.
Cost of Colonoscopy in India
On average, the cost of colonoscopy in India ranges between ₹4000 to ₹6000 (approximately $50 to $70). The cost is affected by factors such as whether the procedure is only diagnostic or involves therapeutic interventions. The use of advanced equipment, the city of treatment, and any specific advancement to the procedure affect the overall cost.
| 🔔Did You Know? Colonoscopy cost in India is comparatively 60%–80% more affordable than in Western countries without compromising on the quality of the procedure. |
Breakdown of Colonoscopy Price in India
There are different types of colonoscopy procedures, including plain diagnostic and therapeutic colonoscopy. Diagnostic Colonoscopy price Basic colonoscopy without anesthesia costs less as compared to colonoscopy with anesthesia/sedation and high definition anesthesia.
| Procedure Type | Estimated Cost (INR) | Estimated Cost (USD) |
| Colonoscopy (without anesthesia) | 4,000 – 6,000 | $50 – $70 |
| Colonoscopy (with anesthesia) | 7,000 – 12,000 | $85 – $145 |
| High-definition colonoscopy | 8,000 – 15,000 | $96 – $180 |
| Therapeutic Colonoscopy Polypectomy (removal of polyps) | 12,000 – 20,000 | $145 – $240 |
| Therapeutic Colonoscopy Biopsy sampling | 6,000 – 10,000 | $72 – $120 |
| Therapeutic Colonoscopy Bleeding control/cauterization | 15,000 – 25,000 | $180 – $300 |
Therapeutic Colonoscopy includes treating the patient during the diagnostic procedure, such as removing polyps, controlling bleeding, or taking a biopsy sample for further treatment.
Colonoscopy Cost Comparison: India vs. Other Countries
| Country | Cost Range (USD) | Cost Range (INR) | Notes |
| India | $50 – $70 | ₹4,200 – ₹5,880 | Highly affordable; prices vary by city and facility. |
| United States | $1,250 – $4,800+ | ₹105,000 – ₹403,200+ | Costs vary widely; insurance coverage significantly affects out-of-pocket expenses. |
| United Kingdom | £800 – £1,500 | ₹84,000 – ₹157,500 | Private sector pricing; NHS may cover costs for eligible individuals. |
| Canada | $600 – $1,200 | ₹50,400 – ₹100,800 | Public healthcare covers most costs; private clinics charge within this range. |
| Australia | $400 – $1,000 | ₹33,600 – ₹84,000 | Costs vary by provider; Medicare may subsidize expenses. |
| Mexico | $500 – $1,000 | ₹42,000 – ₹84,000 | Popular for medical tourism; competitive pricing. |
| Thailand | $500 – $750 | ₹42,000 – ₹63,000 | Known for quality healthcare services at reasonable costs. |
| Philippines | $800 – $1,000 | ₹67,200 – ₹84,000 | Costs depend on facility and city. |
| South Africa | $900 – $1,100 | ₹75,600 – ₹92,400 | Prices vary; some facilities offer packages for international patients. |
| Malaysia | $1,000 – $1,300 | ₹84,000 – ₹109,200 | High-quality care with modern facilities. |
Factors Affecting the Cost of Colonoscopy in India
Several factors affect the cost of colonoscopy in India. These factors are listed below:
- Hospital Type: Multispeciality hospitals with advanced facilities tend to charge on higher side for the accuracy and quality of the diagnostic results.
- City of Procedure: Metropolitan cities are comparatively expensive compared to tier-2 and tier-3 cities. However, in big cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, etc., patients can expect quicker and high-quality diagnostic services.
- Equipment Used: The type of procedure equipment used and its quality affect the cost of the equipment.
- Sedatives Used: Use of anesthesia and quality of sedatives used add to the cost of colonoscopy treatment.
- Additional Tests: If any additional tests are required in addition to the main colonoscopy treatment, this will impact the overall cost.
- Additional Treatment Provided: The cost increases if the patient requires a tissue sample for biopsy or removal of polyps at the time of colonoscopy.
- Pre-procedure Preparation: This includes the blood tests and other diagnostic steps to be taken to prepare the patient for colonoscopy, which also affects the overall cost.
Estimated Colonoscopy Test Price in India
The cost of a colonoscopy in India varies by city, healthcare facility, and the complexity of the procedure. While some cities offer more affordable options, others may have higher costs due to factors like advanced medical infrastructure and specialist expertise. Below is a detailed comparison of colonoscopy costs in major Indian cities, providing both minimum and maximum price ranges to help you make an informed decision.
| City | Min Cost (INR) | Min Cost (USD) | Avg Cost (INR) | Avg Cost (USD) | Max Cost (INR) | Max Cost (USD) |
| Hyderabad | ₹6,300 | $75 | ₹28,000 | $336 | ₹35,000 | $420 |
| Chennai | ₹4,500 | $54 | ₹27,000 | $324 | ₹33,000 | $396 |
| Bangalore | ₹5,000 | $60 | ₹30,000 | $360 | ₹37,000 | $444 |
| Delhi | ₹5,832 | $70 | ₹33,000 | $396 | ₹41,000 | $492 |
| Mumbai | ₹6,500 | $78 | ₹31,000 | $372 | ₹39,000 | $468 |
| Pune | ₹6,000 | $72 | ₹27,000 | $324 | ₹33,000 | $396 |
| Kolkata | ₹5,500 | $66 | ₹25,000 | $300 | ₹30,000 | $360 |
Accessible and Affordable Colonoscopy in India
- Patients with insurance coverage can save on the cost of a colonoscopy in India.
- There are several charitable options available, which can provide financial aid to the patients seeking support for colonoscopy in India.
- International patients can benefit from medical packages, which include wide range of services at cost effective prices.
- Government hospitals also offer cost-effective colonoscopy to the patients.
It is recommended to research online and compare prices to get the best available options without compromising the diagnostic qualities.
International Patient Perspective
For international patients, especially those from countries with higher healthcare costs, India offers a cost-effective alternative for colonoscopy procedures. The average cost of a colonoscopy in India is approximately ₹7,000 ($84), significantly lower than in many Western countries.
Insurance Coverage for Colonoscopy in India
Understanding how colonoscopy procedures are covered by insurance in India is essential for both domestic and international patients. Here’s a breakdown to help you navigate the insurance landscape:
For Indian Residents
- Coverage Under Health Insurance: Colonoscopy is often listed among the daycare procedures covered by health insurance policies in India. This means that if the procedure doesn’t require extended hospitalization, it can still be claimed under your policy.
- Cashless Treatment Facilities: Many health insurance providers in India offer cashless treatment options for procedures like colonoscopy. To avail of this, ensure that the hospital where you’re undergoing the procedure is within your insurer’s network. It’s advisable to notify your insurer in advance and complete any necessary pre-authorization processes
For International Patients
- Insurance Reimbursement: International patients should consult with their home country’s insurance providers to determine if medical procedures undertaken abroad, like colonoscopy, are eligible for reimbursement. Some insurers may cover such expenses, provided the treatment is medically necessary and pre-approved.
- Payment Options: Indian healthcare facilities typically accommodate various payment methods for international patients, including cash, credit/debit cards, wire transfers, and international insurance policies. It’s recommended to coordinate with the hospital’s international patient services for detailed guidance on payment and insurance processes.
Preparing for a Colonoscopy
Proper preparation is crucial for the success of a colonoscopy. Patients are typically required to:
- Follow a special diet before the procedure to cleanse the colon.
- Take prescribed laxatives or enemas to ensure the colon is empty.
- Avoid certain medications that may interfere with the procedure.
- Arrange for someone to accompany them, as sedation is often used during the procedure.
Why Choose Cancer Rounds?
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Conclusion
Colonoscopy is an important procedure in the diagnosis of colon cancer. If a patient is experiencing the symptoms of colorectal cancer, the doctors would opt for this method to confirm if there are malignancies present in the abdominal area. It is important to understand the procedure and the factors affecting the overall cost. This helps the patients to find methods to reduce the cost and opt for affordable treatment. Cancer Rounds has team of experts guiding patients with cost-related queries.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Is a colonoscopy covered under health insurance in India?
Yes, many health insurance policies in India cover colonoscopy as a daycare procedure, especially if it’s deemed medically necessary. Coverage details can vary between insurers, so it’s advisable to review your policy or consult with your insurance provider to understand the specifics.
Q2. Can international patients access cashless treatment for colonoscopy in India?
International patients may access cashless treatment in India if their insurance provider has tie-ups with Indian hospitals. However, this depends on the specific insurance policy and the hospital’s network agreements. It’s recommended to coordinate with both your insurer and the chosen hospital in advance to confirm cashless treatment eligibility.
Q3. How long does a colonoscopy procedure take?
A colonoscopy typically takes between 30 to 60 minutes. However, the total time at the facility may be longer due to preparation and recovery periods.
Q4. What preparation is required before undergoing a colonoscopy?
Preparation usually involves a clear liquid diet and taking prescribed laxatives the day before the procedure to ensure the colon is clean. It’s essential to follow your doctor’s instructions carefully to ensure accurate results.
Q5. Are there any risks associated with a colonoscopy?
Colonoscopy is generally safe. However, some risks include bleeding, especially if a biopsy is taken or a polyp is removed, and, rarely, perforation of the colon wall. Discuss any concerns with your doctor beforehand.
