How long is the NHS wait for colonoscopy in Plymouth?

The current median NHS wait for colonoscopy in Plymouth (across 1 NHS trust) is approximately 11 weeks. The 92nd percentile (long-tail) wait can extend to 30 weeks. There are 1,333 patients currently waiting on the Gastroenterology pathway across these trusts.

Where can I get colonoscopy privately in Plymouth?

Plymouth has private hospitals operated by Spire Healthcare, Nuffield Health, Circle Health, and HCA Healthcare among others. Private colonoscopy typically costs £1,300–£2,800 in the UK. Most private hospitals offer consultation packages where you can be assessed within days. Ask your GP for a referral letter or self-refer directly.

Will going private affect my NHS care for colonoscopy?

No. You can self-fund private treatment without affecting your NHS care or losing your place on the NHS waiting list. Many patients use private providers to access faster surgery while keeping the NHS option as a backup.

Which Plymouth NHS trust has the shortest wait?

University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust is the main NHS trust serving Plymouth for this procedure, with a current median wait of 11 weeks.

Can I be referred to an NHS trust outside Plymouth for a faster wait?

Yes. Under the NHS Patient Choice rules, you have the right to ask your GP to refer you to any NHS trust in England — not just the one closest to your home. If a trust elsewhere has a shorter waiting list, you can request a referral there. Travel costs are your own responsibility.

Colonoscopy in Plymouth: NHS wait vs private cost

The NHS waiting list for colonoscopy in Plymouth has a median wait of 11 weeks across 1 NHS trust serving the area. Private treatment typically costs £1,850, ranging from £1,300 to £2,800.

NHS

Faster than the national average

11 weeks

Median wait in Plymouth

92nd percentile wait:: 30 weeks
Patients waiting:: 1,333
Seen within 18 weeks:: 946%

Free at the point of use. Specialty-level data covering Gastroenterology.

Private

Days, not weeks

£1,850

Typical UK private price

Lowest published:: £1,300
Highest published:: £2,800
Typical wait:: 2–4 weeks

Self-fund or use health insurance. Major UK groups: Spire, Nuffield, Circle, HCA.

NHS trusts serving Plymouth

NHS Trust	Median wait	92nd %ile	Patients waiting	< 18 wks
University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust RK9	11 wk	30 wk	1,333	946%

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See Colonoscopy waits across all UK cities →