What are the common indications for a gastroscopy?

✓ Reflux

✓ Difficulty swallowing

✓ Iron deficiency anaemia

✓ Persistent upper abdominal pain

✓ Coeliac disease investigation

✓ Barrett’s oesophagus surveillance

What is a Gastroscopy?

A gastroscopy (also called an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy or OGD) is a procedure that allows a specialist to examine the lining of the oesophagus (food pipe), stomach and the first part of the small intestine (duodenum).

During the procedure, a thin flexible camera (endoscope) is gently passed through the mouth while you are comfortably sedated. The examination usually takes around 10–20 minutes, and most patients return home the same day.

A gastroscopy may be recommended to investigate symptoms such as:

  • Persistent heartburn or reflux
  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Upper abdominal pain
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Iron deficiency anaemia
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Gastrointestinal bleeding
  • Persistent indigestion
  • Coeliac disease
  • Barrett’s oesophagus surveillance

  • If necessary, small tissue samples (biopsies) can be taken during the procedure. Biopsies are painless and help diagnose conditions such as inflammation, infection, coeliac disease, Helicobacter pylori infection, Barrett’s oesophagus and, less commonly, cancer.

What is Medicare Item 30473?

Medicare Item 30473 is one of the Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) item numbers that may be claimed by a specialist when performing an eligible diagnostic gastroscopy.

This item generally applies when a gastroscopy is clinically indicated to investigate symptoms or monitor certain gastrointestinal conditions. During the procedure, the specialist may also perform biopsies if clinically required.

The appropriate Medicare item number is determined by your treating specialist based on the reason for the procedure and the services performed. Depending on your individual circumstances, a different Medicare item may apply.

It is important to note that while Medicare provides a rebate for eligible procedures, there may still be out-of-pocket costs, including specialist, anaesthetist or private hospital fees. Patients should discuss any expected costs with their treating specialist and, if applicable, their private health insurer before the procedure.

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