1st thing you need to know: How is the procedure done

• Consult with a specialist: Start by scheduling an appointment with a gastroenterologist or colorectal surgeon to assess your symptoms or risk factors and determine if a colonoscopy is necessary
• Preparation: Follow the doctor’s instructions, which typically include a clear liquid diet 1-2 days before the procedure and taking prescribed laxatives to empty your bowels for a clear view of the colon.
• Procedure: The colonoscopy is usually performed as a day surgery under sedation, taking 20-60 minutes, where a flexible tube with a camera (colonoscope) is inserted through the anus to examine the colon.
• Post-Procedure Care: After the procedure, you’ll rest in a recovery area until the sedation wears off (1-2 hours), receive initial results from the doctor, and arrange for someone to take you home as driving is not advised.
• Follow-Up: If polyps are removed or biopsies taken, a follow-up appointment may be scheduled to discuss results, typically within a week, with further screening recommendations based on findings.

Who should do Colonoscopy Screening?

• Aged 50 and above with an average risk profile.
• Family History of Colorectal Cancer: Individuals with a parent, sibling, or child diagnosed with colorectal cancer. 
• Personal History of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Those with conditions like Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis face a higher risk due to chronic inflammation and should begin regular colonoscopies earlier, often 8-10 years after diagnosis, as advised by a doctor.
• Genetic Syndromes: People with inherited conditions such as Lynch syndrome or familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) have a significantly elevated risk and may need screening as early as their 20s or 30s, depending on medical advice.
• Previous Polyps or Colorectal Cancer: Individuals who’ve had adenomatous polyps removed or a history of colorectal cancer require more frequent colonoscopies, often every 3-5 years, to monitor for recurrence or new growth.
• Lifestyle-Related Risks: Those with a combination of factors like obesity, heavy smoking, excessive alcohol use, or a diet high in red/processed meats may be advised to screen earlier than the standard age of 50 if symptoms or other risks are present.

Can I claim insurance or use MediSave

Singapore citizens and permanent residents can use MediSave to offset the cost of a colonoscopy at a private clinic, provided it’s performed at a MediSave-accredited facility.

• Eligibility: MediSave can be used for screening or diagnostic colonoscopies deemed medically necessary (e.g., for symptoms like rectal bleeding or risk factors like family history). Routine screening for those aged 50 and above is also covered.
• Claimable Amount: Up to SGD 1,250 can be claimed per day surgery procedure if you are 50 years old or above, depending on the complexity, subject to MediSave withdrawal limits set by the Central Provident Fund (CPF) Board.
• Process: Inform the private clinic of your intent to use MediSave. The clinic will verify your eligibility, submit the claim electronically to CPF on your behalf, and deduct the approved amount from your MediSave account, with any remaining balance payable in cash or via insurance.
• Documentation: You may need to provide consent and personal details (e.g., NRIC) for the claim, and the clinic will handle the paperwork.
• Confirmation: Check with the clinic beforehand to confirm they’re MediSave-accredited and clarify any out-of-pocket costs after the claim, as total fees in private settings may exceed the claimable limit.

If you need further assistance or advice on financial arrangements, you can check with your insurance agent or consult one of our Preferred Financial Consultants in Singapore And Malaysia.