Endoscopy RRP
£1650
Gastroenterology Consultation
£265
Private Upper GI Endoscopy (Gastroscopy) in Birmingham
Home > Gastroenterology Clinic Birmingham >
Fast, Consultant-Led Diagnostic Care, No Referral, No Waiting Lists
Digestive symptoms can be uncomfortable, worrying and disruptive, yet NHS waiting times for endoscopy can stretch into months, leaving many people without answers or treatment. At Midland Health, you don’t have to wait.
Our Private Upper GI Endoscopy service offers rapid access to consultant-led assessment and investigation, with no GP referral needed and no waiting list. We provide swift, specialist care in a calm and supportive environment.
How We Can Help
An Upper GI Endoscopy (Gastroscopy) is a highly effective procedure used to diagnose and sometimes treat problems in the oesophagus, stomach and duodenum. It can identify conditions such as acid reflux, gastritis, ulcers, swallowing difficulties, Barrett’s oesophagus, coeliac disease, H. pylori infection and cancer or signs of pre-cancer change. With consultant-led care and immediate feedback, we provide a fast and reliable solution for persistent digestive symptoms.
What is an Endoscopy?
An Upper GI Endoscopy is a safe, minimally invasive procedure that uses a thin, flexible tube with a tiny camera to examine the upper digestive tract. It is passed gently through the mouth while you are supported with a local anaesthetic throat spray and, if appropriate, conscious sedation to keep you comfortable. It allows your specialist to directly visualise the lining of the oesophagus, stomach and duodenum, take biopsies if needed and identify problems during the same visit. Endoscopy is one of the most accurate tools for diagnosing upper gastrointestinal conditions and guiding effective treatment.
Do I Need an Appointment?
Yes, you will have a pre-procedure consultation to ensure the test is appropriate, safe and tailored to your needs.
Who Can We Help
Our service is ideal for:
- Ongoing digestive symptoms (heartburn, nausea, bloating, upper abdominal pain, difficulty swallowing)
- Abnormal or unclear test results
- Suspected digestive conditions (reflux disease, gastritis, coeliac disease, Barrett’s oesophagus)
- High-risk or surveillance patients needing regular monitoring
- Anyone wanting fast access without NHS waiting times
No GP referral required, you can book directly.
Our Approach
Your care will be consultant-led from start to finish. We will:
- Take a detailed history of your symptoms
- Explain whether gastroscopy is right for you
- Perform the procedure using gentle, patient-focused techniques
- Take biopsies or treat minor findings where appropriate
- Provide clear, same-day initial feedback
- Develop a tailored treatment plan
Your comfort is a priority. We offer a throat numbing spray and, if suitable, light sedation.
Our Pricing
Meet Our Specialist
Dr Sam Smith, Consultant Gastroenterologist
Dr Sam Smith is a UK-trained Consultant Gastroenterologist with full JAG accreditation in upper and lower endoscopy. He is also accredited in Bowel Cancer Screening, ensuring high-quality endoscopy. He specialises in diagnosing and managing a wide range of gastrointestinal and liver conditions, with particular expertise in Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD). After completing medical and psychological medicine degrees at the University of Birmingham, he undertook advanced specialist training across the West Midlands and completed a PhD in advanced endoscopic techniques. His work has been widely published, and he has presented and chaired sessions at major international meetings.
Dr Smith has experience in both secondary and tertiary centres, including time spent in the internationally recognised Liver Transplant Unit at Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Birmingham. Known for his calm, reassuring manner and patient-centred approach, he takes time to listen carefully, explain diagnoses clearly and work collaboratively with each patient to create a personalised, evidence-based treatment plan.
I would highly recommend Dr Sam. I went to him with multiple symptoms, convinced I had multiple physical conditions; but, he recognised the signs of an eating disorder and suggested I book in with a dietitian. I'm now in recovery and feeling so much better. 10/10 for treatment.
U.A. 08 Mar 2025
Verified review
Review of Dr Sam Smith
Dr Sam Smith was fantastic , first class , filled me with confidence that my health problem will be resolved and the root cause established for the first time in two years since my illness began , i wish id contacted Midland health and got an appointment earlier .
S.S. 20 Nov 2024
Verified review
Review of Dr Sam Smith
What to Expect at Your First Appointment
Before Your Appointment
- No referral needed
- We may ask you to fast or pause certain medications
- Bring previous test results if available
During Your Appointment and Procedure
- Consultation with Dr Smith to review symptoms
- Explanation of the procedure and preparation
- Throat spray and/or sedation if appropriate
- Comfortable endoscopy lasting 5-10 minutes
- Painless biopsies if required
- Recovery with nursing support
After the Procedure
- Same-day initial findings
- Biopsy results within a few days
- Follow-up consultation to discuss results and next steps
Follow-Up Care
Follow-up may include:
- Review of biopsy results
- Treatment for reflux, gastritis, H. pylori or other conditions
- Further investigations or imaging
- Lifestyle and diet guidance
- Long-term monitoring for conditions such as Barrett’s oesophagus
We ensure you have clear answers and ongoing support.
Why Choose Midland Health?
Choosing private care can feel daunting, especially if you’ve faced long waits or uncertainty elsewhere. We offer fast access to advanced diagnostics delivered with empathy, clarity and consultant-led expertise. Our priority is to reduce anxiety, provide rapid answers and guide you confidently towards the right treatment.
Why patients trust us:
- No waiting list, rapid access to endoscopy
- No referral required
- Consultant-performed procedures
- Modern, comfortable facilities
- Gentle, patient-focused techniques
- Same-day findings
- Personalised follow-up care
What Our Patients Say About Us
402 Total Reviews
Great, professional service as always at Midland Health.
T F | 28th Sep 2025
Midland Health
Dr. Pav Dhesi is really amazing and caring :)
Cecília Álvares | 21st Sep 2025
Midland Health
Thank you Dr Rupa Parmar you have been an amazing attentive person and I feel comfortable to discuss matters with you in your clinic and feel you are very knowledgeable and can provide solutions for my needs that I’ve come...
Pammy Bains | 21st Sep 2025
Midland Health
Fantastic!! Efficient service talking through process made my son feel comfortable most of all cleaned out his ears safely and to the best of ability.
Saima SARWAR | 18th Sep 2025
Midland Health
Second time here, all the staff are lovely and felt very welcomed at reception by Dia And health care assistants Vee Emily and Jo
Jaycoxhair | 9th Sep 2025
Midland Health
I saw Dr Sam Smith (gastroenterologist) at this practice. The information on the website was clear and helpful and making an appointment was easy.The practice is nice and modern and the admin staff were polite, kind and helpful, both on...
simone bacchini | 4th Sep 2025
Midland Health
This has been the best service I have received in my life. I am so grateful for the support I’ve gotten, it has been life saving. Thank you again !
Nafizah Bi farooq | 30th Aug 2025
Midland Health
Have used the services of Midland Health in two of their sites as I needed a Medical examinantion (and innoculations) to support a work permit application. The process has taken approximately 10 weeks fdrom start to finish and at all...
Sean OB | 26th Aug 2025
Midland Health
I had an appointment with Ms Fidan Bayli and was very pleased with the experience. She was very welcoming and gentle, and the examination never felt uncomfortable or rushed. I could truly feel her professionalism throughout the consultation. She gave...
Анна Гаджиева | 19th Aug 2025
Midland Health
Had a excellent service top notch I recommended anyone ear wax removal
Ahmed Mohamed | 15th Aug 2025
Midland Health
I have had two appointments with Dr Sam Smith, Gastroenterology and have been very happy with with my treatment and treatment plan, he was friendly and approachable which made me more comfortable to discuss any concerns. Overall very informative which has...
Romaine Sumner | 14th Aug 2025
Midland Health
We recently saw Dr Prasad Nagakumar for a clinic appointment for our daughter. He was very professional and empathetic and listened to all our concerns and answered all our questions. The staff at Midland Health in Edgbaston clinic were fantastic...
Sally El-Ghazali | 12th Aug 2025
Midland Health
I want to say a massive thank you to Dr Pav Hare for her outstanding service. I came in for an appointment, and she instantly put me at ease and started gathering an extensive history and my current concerns. Throughout...
Sahil | 9th Aug 2025
Midland Health
Highly recommend Dr Kudlur. Excellent service and prompt diagnosis. He has been brilliant at articulating the problem in a way that is easy to understand and helpful in creating tools to best manage my condition. I have seen vast improvement...
Angus | 31st Jul 2025
Midland Health
*I recently had a consultation with Dr. Dawson for my 4-month-old daughter, and I couldn’t be more grateful.** He is a highly qualified and understanding pediatrician, with a wonderfully caring approach to little ones. My baby was calm and relaxed...
Lesya Fedorovych | 28th Jul 2025
Midland Health
I recently attended Midland Health for a full Health Assessment/Medical Examination required for work purposes, and I couldn't be more impressed with the service I received.Dr. Pav Dhesi (GP) was fantastic—she was attentive, thorough, and took the time to listen...
Sabrina A. Said | 18th Jun 2025
Midland Health
Throughout multiple experiences over the past few months, the service has been consistently excellent. Appointment availability is remarkable – I'm always seen almost immediately, typically within a day or two at most.The GPs and consultants provide genuinely attentive care, listen...
Sibylle | 5th Jun 2025
Midland Health
Excellent doctor sam
time lapse | 30th May 2025
Midland Health
Midland Health has quite literally changed the course of my life.After years of struggling without answers, I finally took the step to get assessed for ADHD and ASD — and choosing Midland Health was the best decision I could have...
Unknown Reviewer | 27th May 2025
Midland Health
We visited Midland Health last week for some peadiatric blood tests. I had read some of the negative reviews posted previously so was a little hesitant, however from our experience it could not have been any better.We were greeted on...
Melanie Lovegrove | 27th May 2025
Midland Health
We are currently seeing Dr Rupa Parmar who has written up a personalised immunisation schedule for our baby daughter. Dr Parmar is excellent she's professional, listens, offers advice and genuinely cares. We are really pleased with the service we have...
Ellie Steer | 15th May 2025
Midland Health
We took our 4 month old daughter due to rash from suspected allergies, as NHS GP appointment did not lead to answers/ referrals. An appointment was available for two days later at Midland Health. Her allergies were confirmed in one...
Laura Bains | 4th May 2025
Midland Health
I had waited years on the NHS regarding my mild tongue tie. I had a frenectomy carried out by The NHS Coventry Hospital their maxilliofacial department, which was a bit of a fight to get as it seemed they considered...
Tasneem Abrahams | 29th Apr 2025
Midland Health
Excellent, service Dr Kudlur was very kind and knowledgable and didn’t interrupt me (Which I think would have been reasonable as I overran our time!)
Tom Owens | 23rd Apr 2025
Midland Health
From my personal experience, I am so grateful to be in a position where I was able to book a private assessment for diagnosing my ADHD with Dr Kudlur.Due to my circumstances, this prognosis required immediate action, whereas the NHS...
Jordan | 23rd Apr 2025
Midland Health
Mine experience was very good 👍. Dr very nice and polite. She checked my son very well and he improved .
Sidra Ahmed | 15th Apr 2025
Midland Health
Dr Naganna and the other members of the team were excellent when we attended with our daughter. They were thorough and answered all our questions. An excellent team and an excellent location
Kashini Andrew | 12th Apr 2025
Midland Health
I’ve had two treatments so far with Emma Conway, just want to say she is absolutely brilliant - still on the journey to achieve my results but she really makes an effort and cares, she provides great customer service even...
Saira M | 7th Apr 2025
Midland Health
Received excellent and consistent support with no issues and I recommend the service fully.
Callum Peters | 30th Mar 2025
Midland Health
Yes I was happy with my consultation
Sue Gardner | 28th Mar 2025
Midland Health
How to Find Us
Our Francis Road clinic, located at 78-79 Francis Road, Edgbaston, Birmingham B16 8SP, is housed in a modern, purpose-built medical facility designed for comfort, accessibility and high-quality care. With specialist consulting rooms, advanced equipment and a welcoming environment, the clinic offers easy access to private GP services, radiology, paediatrics and specialist consultant appointments.
We provide free on-site parking directly behind the building. Simply enter through the gates a couple of doors down from the main entrance, turn left and park in the designated Midland Health spaces. The clinic is also well connected by public transport: bus routes 35, 50, 80 and X8 stop just a short walk away, Five Ways Station is around a 15-minute walk, and the Edgbaston Village tram stop is also close by. If you need any help with directions, please call 0121 769 0999, and our team will be happy to assist you.
FAQ
What is an Upper GI Endoscopy, and why might I need one?
An Upper GI Endoscopy (Gastroscopy) is a procedure that uses a thin, flexible tube with a camera to examine your oesophagus, stomach and the first part of your small bowel. Your consultant may recommend it if you have ongoing digestive symptoms such as reflux, heartburn, nausea, swallowing difficulties, bloating, upper abdominal pain, or unexplained anaemia. It can diagnose conditions like gastritis, ulcers, coeliac disease, H. pylori infection and Barrett’s oesophagus, and sometimes treat issues during the procedure. It is one of the most accurate ways to understand the cause of upper digestive symptoms.
Is the procedure painful?
Most people do not experience pain. You may feel pressure, fullness or brief discomfort, but the procedure is generally well-tolerated. We use a numbing throat spray and can provide conscious sedation if appropriate, helping you feel calm and relaxed throughout. Many patients say the anticipation is far worse than the procedure itself.
Will I be awake during the endoscopy?
Yes, but you can choose between throat spray alone or throat spray with conscious sedation. Conscious sedation often makes patients feel drowsy and less aware, and many remember little or nothing about the procedure afterwards. Sedation suitability will be discussed during your consultation.
How long does the procedure take?
The endoscopy itself usually takes 5-10 minutes. With preparation, the procedure and recovery time, we recommend allowing around an hour for your appointment.
Do I need to fast before my endoscopy?
Yes, you will usually need to avoid food for 6 hours before your procedure and stop drinking clear fluids 2 hours before. Specific instructions will be provided based on your appointment time. Fasting ensures the specialist can see clearly and reduces the risk of nausea.
Can I take my medications before the procedure?
Most medications can be taken as usual, but some (particularly blood thinners, diabetes medications and certain stomach medications) may need adjustment. Your consultant will provide tailored guidance before your appointment.
What happens if biopsies are taken? Does it hurt?
Biopsies are very common and completely painless. Using tiny forceps through the endoscope, small samples of tissue are taken for laboratory testing, for example, to diagnose coeliac disease, inflammation or Barrett’s oesophagus. You won’t feel the biopsies being taken.
How soon will I receive my results?
You’ll receive initial findings on the same day, immediately after your procedure. If biopsies are taken, these usually return within a few days, and your consultant will then discuss the results in detail, along with a personalised treatment plan.
What conditions can the endoscopy detect?
An Upper GI Endoscopy can diagnose a wide range of digestive conditions, including:
- Upper GI cancer, including oesophageal and gastric cancer
- Acid reflux and gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD)
- Gastritis and inflammation
- Ulcers
- Hiatus hernia
- Barrett’s oesophagus
- Coeliac disease
- Oesophagitis
- Oesophageal strictures
- H. pylori infection
- Early signs of stomach or oesophageal cancer
It is one of the most accurate diagnostic tools available.
Is an endoscopy safe?
Yes, upper GI endoscopy is considered a very safe procedure. Complications are rare, and your consultant will explain all risks beforehand. All procedures are performed by an experienced Consultant Gastroenterologist using high-quality equipment in a modern, purpose-built environment.
Can I drive after the procedure?
If you have sedation, you cannot drive, operate machinery, or make important decisions for 24 hours. You will need someone to take you home. If you have throat spray only (no sedation), you can usually drive once the numbness has worn off, typically after about an hour. Your consultant will confirm this on the day.
How long will my throat feel numb?
The throat spray typically wears off within 30-60 minutes. During this time, you should avoid eating or drinking anything hot to reduce the risk of choking.
Will the procedure treat my symptoms?
Endoscopy is primarily a diagnostic tool, but certain treatments can be performed during the procedure, such as removing small polyps. Most patients, however, receive a treatment plan based on the results.
What happens after my endoscopy?
You will have time in a recovery area and then receive initial results straight away. Once biopsy results are back, you’ll have a follow-up appointment to discuss findings, treatment options and next steps. Our care continues beyond the procedure, ensuring you receive the right support, medications or referrals as needed.
Do I need a GP referral to book?
No, you can book directly with Midland Health. We make it easy to access fast, specialist-led care without waiting months for NHS appointments.
Is the endoscopy covered by insurance?
Some private medical insurers may cover consultations or the procedure. Coverage varies, so we recommend checking with your provider. Our team can supply any documentation needed.
How much does the procedure cost?
Our pricing is transparent, with no hidden fees. The gastroscopy package includes your consultation, procedure, biopsies (if needed) and results review.
We have translators available for your appointment.
Digital Prescription
Midland Health has partnered with a highly reputable electronic prescription provider, SignatureRx, to make receiving your prescriptions faster and easier. With our new paperless system, you can choose to collect your medication using your secure prescription code or have it delivered directly to your home free of charge. There’s no need for paper prescriptions or multiple pharmacy visits.
To find out more about our digital prescription service please click here.
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