If you’ve been experiencing persistent heartburn, abdominal pain, unexplained nausea, or difficulty swallowing, your doctor may have mentioned a gastroscopy—a safe, minimally invasive procedure that examines your upper digestive tract. But did you know that in Montreal, you can skip the long public healthcare waitlists and book a private gastroscopy with no referral required?
At Cabinet Médical Mark Reimer, we specialize in fast, comfortable, and expert-led gastroscopy procedures in the heart of Montreal. With same-day results, no doctor’s referral needed, and minimal wait times, we make it easy to take control of your digestive health.
In this guide, we’ll explain:
- What a gastroscopy is and why it’s performed
- How to prepare for your procedure
- What to expect during and after the exam
- Why choosing a private clinic in Montreal means faster care and peace of mind
What Is a Gastroscopy?
A gastroscopy (also called an upper endoscopy or just sometimes an endoscopy) is a diagnostic procedure that allows a gastroenterologist to examine the esophagus, stomach, and first part of the small intestine (duodenum) using a thin, flexible tube called a gastroscope. This tube is equipped with a high-definition camera and light, providing real-time images to detect abnormalities such as:
- Inflammation (e.g., gastritis)
- Ulcers (often caused by H. pylori bacteria)
- Polyps or tumors
- Hiatal hernias
- Early signs of cancer
- Unexplained blood loss or swallowing issues
Why Would You Need a Gastroscopy?
Your doctor may recommend a gastroscopy if you have:
- Chronic heartburn or acid reflux (GERD)
- Persistent abdominal pain or bloating
- Unexplained weight loss
- Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
- Vomiting blood or black stools
- Anemia (low iron levels) of unknown cause
Gastroscopy is also used for preventive screenings, especially if you have a family history of stomach cancer or digestive disorders.
Why Choose a Private Gastroscopy Clinic in Montreal?
In Quebec’s public healthcare system, wait times for non-urgent gastroscopies can stretch for months. At Cabinet Médical Mark Reimer, we offer:
- No referral required – Book directly without a doctor’s referral
- No waitlists – Get an appointment within days, not months.
- Same-day results – Discuss findings with your doctor immediately after the procedure.
- Expert care – Dr Reimer has 20+ years of experience and has performed over 20,000 procedures.
- Comfortable, modern facilities – Designed for privacy, safety, and relaxation to ease any anxiety.
How to Prepare for Your Gastroscopy in Montreal
Proper preparation ensures a smooth and safe procedure. Here’s what you need to know:
Fasting Requirements
- If your gastroscopy is in the morning: No food or drink after midnight the night before.
- If your gastroscopy is in the afternoon: You may have small sips of clear liquids (water, black coffee, tea) up to 6 hours before the procedure, but no solid food after midnight.
Medication Adjustments
- Blood thinners (e.g., Xarelto, Pradaxa, Eliquis): You may need to stop these 3–5 days before your procedure. Always consult your doctor first.
- GLP-1 medications (e.g., Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro): Do not eat solid food the day before your gastroscopy if you take these.
- Other medications: Take your usual morning medications with small sips of water, unless instructed otherwise.
Transportation & Sedation
- If you opt for sedation (recommended for comfort, and included in the price), you cannot drive for 24 hours after the procedure. Arrange for a friend, family member, or taxi to take you home.
What to Expect During the Gastroscopy Procedure
Before the Procedure
- You’ll check in at our Montreal clinic and meet with the nurses and Dr. Reimer to review your medical history.
- A nurse will explain the process and answer any last-minute questions.
- An IV will be inserted to help you relax.
During the Procedure
- The gastroscopy itself takes 5–15 minutes.
- You’ll lie on your left side, and a nurse will monitor your vitals (heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen levels).
- The surgeon will gently insert the gastroscope through your mouth and into your esophagus, stomach, and duodenum.
- The camera transmits high-definition images to a screen, allowing the doctor to examine your digestive tract in real time.
- Biopsies (tiny tissue samples) may be taken for further analysis if abnormalities are found.
After the Procedure
- You’ll rest in our recovery room for 30–45 minutes while the sedation wears off.
- You`ll know the initial findings with you right away.
- If biopsies were taken, results typically take 4–6 weeks for the lab to return the results..
- You can eat and drink normally once fully awake, unless your doctor advises otherwise.
Frequently Asked Questions About Gastroscopy in Montreal
Is Gastroscopy Painful?
Most patients experience little to no discomfort. If you choose sedation, you’ll likely sleep through the procedure and wake up with no memory of it. Without sedation, you may feel mild pressure or gagging, but the procedure is not typically painful.
Are There Any Risks?
Gastroscopy is very safe, with complications being extremely rare. Potential risks include:
- Minor throat irritation (usually resolves within hours)
- Bleeding or perforation (less than 1 in 3,000 cases)
- Reaction to sedation (allergic reactions are uncommon)
Our clinic follows strict safety protocols to minimize risks.
Does Insurance Cover Private Gastroscopy in Montreal?
- Private insurance (e.g., through your employer) often covers gastroscopy procedures. Check with your provider for details.
- RAMQ (Quebec’s public health insurance) does not cover private gastroscopies, but many patients choose private clinics for faster access and convenience.
How Much Does a Private Gastroscopy Cost in Montreal?
Prices vary by clinic, but at Cabinet Médical Mark Reimer, we offer competitive, transparent pricing with no hidden fees. For example, some clinics in Montreal charge less than we do, yet many charge extra for consultations and biopsies. It`s important to add up the total cost. Often, a gastroscopy will require three or four biopsies, and that adds up fast when added to a low initial procedure fee. Besides, when you buy a car, do you choose the cheapest, or are other things also important? What about when it comes to your health?
Book Your Private Gastroscopy in Montreal Today
If you’re experiencing digestive symptoms or need a gastroscopy for peace of mind, don’t wait months for a public appointment. At Cabinet Médical Mark Reimer, we provide:
- Fast access – No long waitlists
- No referral needed – Book directly
- Expert general surgeon – 20+ years of experience
- Same-day results – No uncertainty
Ready to take the next step?
Book your gastroscopy online
Call us at 514.316.8744
Visit us at the RocklandMD facility, 100 Rockland Rd, Suite 110-1, Montreal
Final Thoughts
Your digestive health is too important to wait. With private gastroscopy in Montreal, you can get the answers you need quickly, comfortably, and confidently. Whether you’re investigating heartburn, abdominal pain, or other symptoms, our team is here to support you every step of the way.
Have questions? Contact us directly. We’re happy to help!