Efficient Colonoscopy and Gastroscopy Procedures at FirstMed's Modern Endoscopy Center
Endoscopic examinations are a critical method for detecting issues in the digestive tract and for colorectal and bowel cancer screening. At our specialized Endoscopy Center, our gastroenterologists perform examinations and screenings by inspecting the inside of the digestive tract with an endoscope, a flexible tube equipped with a high-resolution camera. Through these exams, our doctors can detect and, if necessary, remove harmful polyps, and identify the causes of digestive problems.
The endoscopic exams are painless because they are performed under general anesthesia.
Choose your preferred endoscopy procedure:
Colonoscopy
During endoscopic exams, our gastroenterologists check for conditions such as inflammation, tumors, polyps, and other abnormalities on the inner surfaces of the large intestine (colon) and rectum.
Colonoscopy is highly recommended for preventive screening to detect the early signs of colorectal cancer. Have regular colonoscopy screenings if you are over 50.
Gastroscopy
Gastroscopy, also called upper endoscopy, is a procedure that assesses the esophagus (food pipe), stomach, and duodenum (the first part of the small intestine).
This exam enables gastroenterologists to identify the causes of stomach and digestive problems effectively and, if necessary, initiate immediate treatment for persistent stomach pain, heartburn, peptic ulcers, and esophageal issues.
Which symptoms warrant endoscopic examination?
For gastrointestinal issues:
- Persistent heartburn, reflux
- Abdominal pain, bloating
- Constant nausea or vomiting
- Bloody or black stools
- Abdominal cramps or abdominal discomfort
- Changes in bowel movements (diarrhoea, constipation)
For respiratory complaints:
- Difficulty swallowing
- Difficulty breathing, shortness of breath
- Chronic sore throat
- Laryngeal problems (e.g., hoarseness)
For chronic diseases:
- Suspected inflammatory bowel disease (e.g. Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis)
- Follow-up of complications or symptoms of diagnosed bowel disease
- Iron deficiency anaemia (not explained by other causes)
For health check-ups:
- Regular screenings, such as for colorectal cancer in individuals over the age of 50
- Suspected gastric or bowel cancer
- Long-term follow-up of reflux disease
Glimpse into FirstMed’s Endoscopy Center
Our modern Endoscopy Center has been operating as a separate department within FirstMed’s Budapest clinic since 2020. High-quality care is provided in comfortable consultation and examination rooms equipped with modern equipment.
In the private room next to the examination room, our patients can comfortably recover after the anesthesia wears off.
The endoscopic exam procedure
Depending on your choice or your symptoms, the endoscopic examination may include a gastroscopy, a colonoscopy, or both. The entire endoscopy appointment, from check-in to check-out, takes approximately one hour. The whole examination procedure involves the following steps:
- Preliminary anesthesiology consultation: You will have an anesthesiology consultation right before the endoscopy exam.
- Anesthesia is administered to avoid discomfort during the endoscopic exam.
- Endoscopic exam: Our gastroenterologist gently inserts an endoscope into the body and checks for abnormalities. You can have a gastroscopy, colonoscopy, or both during the same appointment.
- Tissue sample: During the procedure, a tissue sample (biopsy) may be taken for laboratory testing, or polyps may be removed.
- Rest: After the exam, we will wake you up, and then you will rest in a private room until the anesthesia wears off.
- Going home: You can go home only with an escort (if possible by car).
- Receive the result: We will forward the tissue sample for evaluation and email you the result within 10 days of your appointment.
Endoscopic screenings do not include a consultation with a gastroenterologist. If you have symptoms and would like to see a specialist, please indicate this on the contact form below.
Choose FirstMed’s Endoscopy Center for a safe and comfortable exam
At FirstMed’s Endoscopy Center, we provide painless, safe, and accurate checkups, a comfortable environment, and timely, precise results. Experience through care and expertise at every step.
Our Endoscopy Center has been operating since 2020 as a special department at high professional standards. Its modern equipment ensures comfort during the procedure and accurate results.
Central location in Budapest near Széll Kálmán tér metro station, with good access by public transportation and free parking for our patients.
English communication: A common language ensures you understand everything from booking appointments to preparing for procedures and receiving results.
With decades of experience, FirstMed’s professional endoscopy team ensures your comfort and safety during the screening.
Convenient appointment times for examinations are available on select weekday afternoons and Saturdays so you can have your endoscopy at a preferred time.
Direct billing to insurance: For private health insurance holders, we may bill your insurer directly for colonoscopy screening if your insurance plan covers this service.
Here's what our patients have experienced:
We are committed to providing high-quality care and ensuring our patients’ satisfaction. This dedication is shown through the positive feedback we receive from our patients.
Meet our expert team
Our experienced endoscopy team ensures you receive top-quality care. Visit us with any gastrointestinal-related questions or concerns; we are here to help with the most effective endoscopic procedures and guide you on treatment options.
Dr. Péter Kokas, PhD
Gastroenterologist, endoscopic procedures
Dr. Péter Lukovich, PhD
Gastroenterologist, endoscopic procedures
Dr. Katalin Darvas, Prof. emeritus
Anesthesiologist
Dr. Zsuzsanna Ulakcsai
Anesthesiologist
Endoscopy exam prices
Endoscopic examination
gastroscopy under anesthesia
from HUF 155,000
Endoscopic examination
colonoscopy under anesthesia
from HUF 179,000
Endoscopic examination
gastroscopy and colonoscopy under anesthesia
from HUF 255,000
Medical consultation
(gastroenterology, optional)
from HUF 48,500
*A gastroenterologist consultation is not included in the endoscopic examination price. If needed (e.g., if you have symptoms), it has to be requested (and paid for) additionally. FirstMed Plan or Value Card holders can receive consultations and colonoscopy examinations at special prices.
As part of our promotion, we are now offering a free FirstMed Value Card, valid for one year, to new patients who pay for a colonoscopy and/or gastroscopy exam on the spot. This card will enable you to benefit from endoscopy and other FirstMed services at special prices.
FirstMed Premium Plan and Elite Plan holders get a further discount on the above endoscopic exam prices.
The prices listed above are indicative and are valid for payment at our clinic or online before your visit. Our staff will be happy to provide you with detailed price information.
Direct billing to insurance
For private health insurance holders, we may bill your insurer directly for the cost of your endoscopic exam if your insurance plan covers this service. Please indicate on the contact form below whether you have insurance so we can verify if we can accept it.
Frequently asked questions
How to request appointment for endoscopy?
The easiest way to request an appointment for an endoscopic exam is to fill out the form below. We will respond to your request soon to schedule an appointment.
What does an endoscopy checks for?
Endoscopy effectively identifies abnormalities of the digestive system.
- If you have no symptoms, colon screenings are generally recommended for adults over 50 every five years.
- If you experience symptoms such as chronic bloating, diarrhea, stomach pain, reflux, or bloody stools, contact us to schedule an examination.
I have no symptoms, why should I have an endoscopic exam?
Symptoms of colorectal disease often appear at an advanced stage, making it difficult or impossible to treat effectively. The sooner a lesion is detected, the higher the chance of a successful cure. Our specialists can remove these polyps before they cause problems or develop into malignant tumors.
Therefore, even if you do not experience symptoms, undergoing regular endoscopy screening can help identify and remove polyps early.
Have regular colonoscopies starting at age 50, or earlier if there is a family history of colorectal cancer. These screenings should be conducted every five years. Additionally, patients from Southeast Asia are advised to have a colonoscopy annually.
Is a medical referral necessary for endoscopy?
A referral is not necessary, but it is helpful to have a preliminary check-up with a GP or gastroenterologist if you have symptoms that may require an endoscopy.
Please send us any relevant medical documents, such as a family doctor’s note dated within the past 40 days (Hypertonia, Diabetes, Anticoagulants), to review the use of blood-thinning medicines. If you do not have one, please let us know, and we will arrange one at our clinic before your visit.
When are the endoscopic exams available?
Initial consultation and endoscopy are usually carried out in afternoon or early evening appointments on some working days, and the examination is also possible on Saturdays. This means that you do not need to take any time off work.
What are polyps and why are they important to remove?
Colon and rectal polyps are benign clusters of cells forming on the colon’s inner lining. If left untreated, they can progress to colon and rectal cancer. Removing polyps can significantly lower the risk of colon cancer, which is why regular endoscopic screening is a crucial preventive measure for individuals over 50.
During the colonoscopy procedure, precancerous polyps are not only detected but also removed.
What preparations are needed before colonoscopy?
A complete bowel cleanse is necessary before a colonoscopy. This cleansing should be done at home the day before and on the day of your scheduled exam, using bowel-cleansing medication. During this period, you are allowed to consume fluids to maintain your calorie intake, so complete fasting is not required.
We will email you all the details in English before the examination.
Is the endoscopic examination painful?
The endoscopic procedure may cause some discomfort; however, to minimize this, the exams are performed under anesthesia. Our highly experienced anesthesiology team carefully administers anesthesia to ensure your safety.
Can I have endoscopic exam without anesthesia?
Endoscopies are performed under general anesthesia to ensure a painless experience and comfort throughout the examination. However, with special arrangements, an awake examination is also an option.
What are the possible side effects of an endoscopic examination?
Rare side effects of the procedure may include fever, bloating, bloody stools, and/or abdominal pain. If you experience any of these, please contact us!
Choose FirstMed’s Endoscopy Center in Budapest for expert screening to detect abnormalities or potential gastrointestinal concerns early. Don’t wait for symptoms—take charge of your health with a proactive approach to your well-being!
