The Oaks Hospital · Colchester, Essex
Private Gastroenterology Fees in Colchester
Clear, up-front pricing for private gastroenterology care with Dr Thines Karunakaran at The Oaks Hospital. You will always know what an appointment costs before you book, and any further investigation is quoted in advance.
Dr Thines Karunakaran
Consultant Gastroenterologist
Consultation fees
Consultation fees cover Dr Karunakaran's time, assessment and a written plan. Investigations are quoted separately by the hospital:
- New patient consultation — £215
- Follow-up consultation — £150
- Gastroscopy, colonoscopy and other investigations — quoted before booking
- Payment by card, Apple Pay or Google Pay
- Insured patients: settled directly with your insurer where authorised
Self-pay patients
If you are paying for yourself, there is no need for insurance approval and in most cases no need for a GP referral. You pay the consultation fee securely online when you book, and if further tests are recommended you receive a written quote from The Oaks Hospital before anything is arranged.
Insured patients
Dr Karunakaran is recognised by Bupa (Fee Assured), AXA Health, Aviva, Vitality, WPA, Healix, Allianz Worldwide Care, Aetna International, The Exeter and Benenden Health. Contact your insurer before your appointment for an authorisation number, and bring your policy details with you. Most policies cover consultation and endoscopy in full once authorised.
Simplyhealth cash plans
Simplyhealth health cash plans work differently from private medical insurance — there is no authorisation to arrange. You pay the consultation fee as usual, then claim it back directly from Simplyhealth using your receipt, which we provide after your appointment.
What the consultation includes
A full history and examination, review of any previous investigations, an explanation of what is likely to be causing your symptoms, and a clear plan. A letter is sent to you and, with your permission, to your GP. If endoscopy is needed, the same consultant performs it and discusses your results with you.
NHS therapeutic endoscopy
ERCP and endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) are performed through Dr Karunakaran's NHS practice at Colchester Hospital rather than at The Oaks, as these advanced procedures require an acute hospital setting. This is explained clearly if it applies to you.
Fees and payment FAQs
How much does a private gastroenterology consultation cost in Colchester?+
A new patient consultation with Dr Thines Karunakaran is £215 and a follow-up consultation is £150. These fees cover the consultant's time only. Any endoscopy, scan or blood test is quoted separately by The Oaks Hospital before it is booked.
How much does a private colonoscopy or gastroscopy cost?+
Endoscopy is provided as a hospital package that covers the procedure, sedation, nursing care and any biopsies taken. The Oaks Hospital quotes the exact figure before you book, so you know the full cost in advance. There are no hidden extras added afterwards.
Do I need a GP referral to be seen privately?+
Self-pay patients can usually self-refer and simply contact the secretary to arrange an appointment. Most insurers ask for a GP referral letter and an authorisation number before your consultation, so check with your insurer first.
Which insurers are recognised?+
Dr Karunakaran is recognised by Bupa (including Bupa Fee Assured), AXA Health, Aviva Health, Vitality, WPA, Healix Health Services, Allianz Worldwide Care, Aetna International, The Exeter and Benenden Health. Please obtain authorisation from your insurer before your appointment.
Book a private appointment in Colchester
GP referrals and self-referrals welcome · Rapid appointments at The Oaks Hospital, Colchester.