Waiting for an endoscopy in Ireland? Gastroscopy, colonoscopy or both examinations can be arranged privately in Poland, with sedation available where medically appropriate.
According to the National Treatment Purchase Fund, 42,608 patients were waiting to receive an appointment for GI Endoscopy at the end of July 2026.
Eligible patients can receive healthcare in another EU country and apply to the HSE for reimbursement. The amount depends on the treatment provided, the applicable DRG classification and the actual healthcare cost paid abroad.
*These are published HSE DRG tariffs used to estimate reimbursement for eligible day-case care. The final amount is determined by the HSE and is limited to the lower of the eligible cost paid abroad or the corresponding cost in the Irish public system. Reimbursement is not guaranteed.
Tell us whether you need gastroscopy, colonoscopy or both. We can help you explore available appointments in Poland and guide you through the practical steps involved in the HSE Cross Border Directive.
Both procedures allow a specialist to examine the digestive system using a flexible endoscope. They are used for different areas of the gastrointestinal tract and may help investigate symptoms, abnormal test results or conditions requiring further assessment.
Gastroscopy examines the oesophagus, stomach and the first part of the small intestine, known as the duodenum.
Colonoscopy allows the specialist to examine the lining of the large bowel and the end of the small intestine where appropriate.
For patients who need both gastroscopy and colonoscopy, the examinations may in suitable cases be arranged during the same visit and sedation.
For someone travelling from Ireland, this can be particularly practical because it may reduce the need to organise two separate journeys, appointments and periods away from work or family.
Sedation or short intravenous anaesthesia may be available for endoscopic examinations where medically appropriate.
Before sedation, the clinical team reviews your medical history, medication and any factors that could affect the safety of the procedure.
Public waiting lists for endoscopy remain substantial. Patients who do not want to wait may consider receiving eligible healthcare in another EU country, including private diagnostic treatment in Poland.
Make sure you have the appropriate referral required for the Cross Border Directive pathway before treatment.
Choose the examination you need and arrange the appointment with a suitable private healthcare provider in Poland.
You pay the healthcare provider directly and receive the required medical and payment documentation.
Submit the relevant documentation to the HSE under the EU Cross Border Directive reimbursement process.
Preparation differs between gastroscopy and colonoscopy. The clinic will provide detailed instructions based on the exact procedure and your medical circumstances.
You will normally be asked not to eat for a period before the examination so that the stomach is empty.
The bowel must be adequately cleansed before examination. The clinic will provide dietary and bowel-preparation instructions.
Tell the medical team about prescription medicines, supplements, diabetes treatment and blood-thinning medication.
Provide relevant medical documentation and information about previous procedures, allergies and existing medical conditions.
Yes. Patients can arrange private diagnostic treatment in Poland. If you intend to apply for HSE reimbursement, the Cross Border Directive requirements should be followed before treatment.
In suitable cases both examinations can be arranged during the same visit. The treating specialist decides whether this is appropriate for your individual situation.
Eligible treatment may qualify for reimbursement under the EU Cross Border Directive. The final amount is determined by the HSE according to the care provided, relevant DRG classification and actual eligible cost paid abroad.
If you intend to use the HSE Cross Border Directive, make sure you meet the applicable Irish referral requirements before starting the treatment pathway in Poland.
Certain polyps can be removed during colonoscopy where clinically appropriate. Whether this can be done depends on the finding, size, location and medical assessment.
Sedation or short intravenous anaesthesia may be available, subject to medical assessment and the protocol used by the healthcare provider.
Tell us which examination you need. We can help you explore private diagnostic options in Poland, available appointments and the practical steps involved in the HSE Cross Border Directive.
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