Endoscopy Procedure

An Endoscopy may also be called, upper endoscopy, EGD or esophagogastroduodenoscopy. An endoscopy is a procedure used to visually examine your upper digestive system with a tiny camera on the end of a long, flexible tube.

A specialist in diseases of the digestive system (gastroenterologist) uses an endoscopy to diagnose and, sometimes, treat conditions that affect the esophagus, stomach and beginning of the small intestine (duodenum).

You may have an upper endoscopy done in an outpatient surgery center or a hospital. An endoscopy is a very safe procedure. Rare complications include: bleeding, infection, tearing of the gastrointestinal tract, and reaction to sedation. You can reduce your risk of complications by carefully following your doctor’s instructions for preparing for an endoscopy, such as fasting and stopping certain medications.

You will need to stop drinking and eating up to eight hours before your endoscopy to ensure your stomach is empty for the procedure. An endoscopy typically takes 15 to 30 minutes, depending on your situation.

You Have The Right To Receive A “Good Faith Estimate” Explaining How Much Your Medical Care Will Cost.

Under the law, health care providers need to give patients who don’t have insurance or who are not using insurance an estimate of the bill for medical items or services.

  • You have the right to receive a Good Faith Estimate for the total expected cost of any non-emergency items or services. This includes related costs like medical tests, prescription drugs, and equipment.

  • Make sure your health care provider gives you a Good Faith Estimate in writing at least 1 business day before your medical service or item. You can also ask your health care provider, and any other provider you choose, for a Good Faith Estimate before you schedule an item or service.

  • If you receive a bill that is at least $400 more than your Good Faith Estimate, you can dispute the bill. Make sure to save a copy or picture of the Good Faith Estimate.

For questions or more information, visit www.cms.gov/nosurprises or call 1-800-985-3059