Do I need a GP referral to see Dr Abu Shawish?

A GP referral is preferred for Medicare rebates and to assist in coordinating care. However, self-referrals are also accepted — please contact the rooms to arrange an initial consultation.

How soon can I get a private colonoscopy or gastroscopy?

We aim to provide timely access for private patients. Once the consultation is arranged and pre-procedure instructions reviewed, colonoscopy or gastroscopy can usually be scheduled promptly depending on availability and hospital booking times.

What should I do to prepare for my colonoscopy?

You will receive clear bowel-preparation and fasting instructions. It’s important to follow these instructions carefully to ensure a safe and effective procedure.

Will I be under sedation during the procedure?

Yes. All colonoscopy and gastroscopy procedures are performed with sedation under the care of a specialist anaesthetist to ensure your comfort and safety.

What happens after my procedure?

After the procedure, you will recover in a monitored area. Dr Abu Shawish will discuss initial findings before discharge, and a detailed report will be sent to your referring doctor. You will also receive after-care and follow-up instructions.

Can I return to normal activities after the procedure?

Most patients can resume normal activities the following day unless advised otherwise. You should avoid driving and work on the day of the procedure if sedation was used.

How do I get results of biopsies or polyp analysis?

If biopsies or polyp removal are performed, results are usually available within a few days. We will arrange a follow-up consultation (in person or by phone) to discuss the results and any further treatment or surveillance if required.

What should I do if I have concerns after my procedure?

If you have non-urgent questions or concerns, please contact our rooms on (03) 9191 7803 or email admin@drabushawish.com. For urgent or serious symptoms, seek immediate medical attention or attend your nearest hospital’s emergency department.

Can I book an appointment online?

Yes. With a valid GP referral, you can book your gastroenterology consultation online. Select the 'Book Appointment' button to view available times.

What if I need an urgent appointment?

If your doctor indicates that your referral is urgent, our team will arrange your consultation as soon as possible.

Can I take my regular medications before my procedure?

Most medications can be continued. However, please inform us if you take blood thinners, diabetes medications or iron supplements, as these may require adjustment. Our rooms will provide individualised instructions.

What if I have diabetes or take blood thinners?

Dr Abu Shawish will review your medications and provide clear, written instructions to ensure your procedure is performed safely. You may be asked to modify or temporarily stop certain medications before and after your procedure.

Will I be asleep during a gastroscopy or colonoscopy?

Yes. Procedures are performed under sedation administered by a specialist anaesthetist. Most patients are comfortable and have no memory of the procedure.

How long does a gastroscopy or colonoscopy take?

A gastroscopy typically takes around 15 minutes, while a colonoscopy takes approximately 30 minutes. You should plan to be at the hospital for 2–3 hours including admission and recovery.

Can both procedures be done at the same time?

Yes. Gastroscopy and colonoscopy can be performed during the same session under one sedation, reducing inconvenience and the need for multiple visits.

Can I drive home after my procedure?

No. Due to sedation, you must not drive, operate machinery, or make major decisions for 24 hours. You will need a responsible adult to accompany you home.

When will I receive my results?

Dr Abu Shawish will discuss initial findings on the day of the procedure. A written report is provided afterwards and pathology results are usually ready within 5–10 days and sent to your referring doctor.

Gastroenterologist FAQ | Dr Walid Abu Shawish | Appointments, Procedures & Costs

Yes. A valid GP or specialist referral is required to see Dr Walid Abu Shawish, Gastroenterologist and Advanced Endoscopist. This ensures you receive the appropriate Medicare rebate and that your referring doctor is kept informed of your care.

Referrals can be sent securely via:

📧 Email: admin@drabushawish.com
📠 Fax: (03) 7054 3652
🌐 HealthLink: drabusha

Availability varies depending on urgency and clinic schedule. We always aim to offer the earliest suitable appointment.
Urgent referrals are prioritised.

If your referring doctor indicates that your referral is urgent, we will prioritise your booking and aim to schedule your consultation as soon as possible.

Yes. Both gastroscopy and colonoscopy procedures are performed under light sedation administered by a qualified anaesthetist. Most patients are comfortable and have no memory of the procedure.

You can reach us anytime via our contact page or email. We aim to respond quickly—usually within one business day.

A gastroscopy usually takes around 15 minutes, while a colonoscopy takes 30 minutes. Expect to be at the hospital or endoscopy centre for approximately 2–3 hours including recovery.

Yes. If required, gastroscopy and colonoscopy can be performed during the same session under one sedation, minimising downtime and the need for multiple appointments.

What bowel preparation will I need before my colonoscopy?

Clear bowel preparation is essential for a safe and accurate colonoscopy.
You will receive personalised instructions when your procedure is booked.

Most medications can be continued.
However, please inform us if you take:

Blood thinners
Diabetes medications
Iron supplements

These may require adjustment. Our rooms will provide individualised instructions.

All endoscopic procedures—including gastroscopy and colonoscopy—are performed at:

The Avenue Hospital 40 The Avenue, Windsor, Melbourne VIC 3181

Epworth Richmond 89 Bridge Rd, Richmond VIC 3121, Australia

This fully accredited facility is equipped for advanced gastrointestinal care.

No. Due to sedation, you must not drive, operate machinery, or make major decisions for 24 hours.
Please arrange for a responsible adult to accompany you home.

When can I eat or drink again?

Most patients can resume eating and drinking within a few hours once fully awake, unless advised otherwise.

Yes. Dr Walid Abu Shawish provides private gastroenterology consultations and performs endoscopic procedures at several public and private hospitals across Melbourne.

Consultation fees apply and are partially reimbursed by Medicare.
For patients with private health insurance, most procedures are fully covered with no out-of-pocket costs.

Any potential gap fees will be explained clearly before your procedure.

Your Questions, Answered – Gastroenterologist Dr Walid Abu Shawish

Dr Walid Abu Shawish