Is gastrointestinal endoscopy covered by OHIP?
Yes, GI endoscopy procedures are covered by OHIP. Patients need to present their valid Ontario health card to be able to receive OHIP coverage for their endoscopy procedure. Make sure you bring it to your appointment!
Important information for endoscopy patients
A physician referral isrequired to book an appointment for GI endoscopy. If you don’t have a family doctor, you can request an appointment at our primary care clinic. Referrals can also be obtained from one of our onsite specialized clinics.
Due to the nature of GI endoscopy procedures, they require quite a bit of preparation—generally starting several days in advance. Once your appointment has been confirmed, our team will provide you with clear information about what you need to do leading up to your endoscopy procedure, and they are available to answer any questions or concerns you might have. As part of this, you may be required to cease taking certain medications before your appointment. Again, we will discuss this with you if required.
Endoscopy procedures generally require sedation. You will need to arrange for someone to pick you up after your appointment, and after you’ve spent a short time (usually less than an hour) in recovery after your procedure is complete. This is required to ensure that you wake up safely from sedation, and that you’re fit to go home. You will not be fit to drive for 24 hrs after being sedated—this is for your own safety and the safety of others.
