Practical information for international patients
GASTRO CENTRS is a member of the Latvian Health Tourism Cluster and provides international patients with the same high-quality medical services and level of care and professionalism as local patients.
We ensure an individual approach and dedicated support for each patient, so everyone feels welcome and safe when entrusting their health to our specialists.
Our staff are fluent in Latvian, English and Russian, ensuring convenient communication for patients from different countries. If you require communication in a different language, we recommend arranging an interpreter to ensure full understanding and comfort during medical procedures.
The information on this page is intended for patients who are travelling to Riga by air or car for diagnostic examinations or consultations at GASTRO CENTRS. Please review the recommendations regarding arrival time, post-procedure mobility restrictions and practical information relating to accommodation and transport.
Guidance for patients travelling by air for examinations
Arrival in Riga before the procedure: minimum 1 day, optimal 2–3 days before the examination
Patients travelling from abroad by air should arrive in Riga at least one day before their scheduled procedure. This is particularly important for patients undergoing a colonoscopy, as they must adhere to dietary restrictions for seven days prior to the procedure and complete the final preparation phase (diet and bowel cleansing) the day before the examination.
To ensure a smooth and stress-free procedure, we recommend allowing sufficient time before the examination to:
- rest after travelling;
- avoid delays or stress;
- fully comply with the preparation instructions.
Flights before the procedure
Flying before the examination is permitted. However, the preparation process must be taken into account. In the case of a colonoscopy, travelling the day before the procedure is not permitted.
Preparation for examinations
How to prepare for examinations – GASTRO
Accommodation in Riga
If you are scheduled for a colonoscopy or other procedure that requires preparation the day before, it is recommended that you stay overnight at a nearby hotel/residence or in Riga city center to avoid rushing and additional stress on the day of the procedure.
How to get to GASTRO CENTRS
GASTRO CENTRS is located approximately 30 minutes from the centre of Riga, depending on traffic conditions, and can be reached by:
- taxi or licensed ride services;
- pre-arranged private transportation.
Patients using public transport are encouraged to use the Rigas Satiksme route planner.
If needed, the GASTRO CENTRS customer service team can assist with transport planning and arrangements (e.g. taxi booking, parking reservation).
Patients are advised to arrive at the GASTRO CENTRS at least 30 minutes before their scheduled procedure to allow extra time for:
- traffic congestion;
- adverse weather conditions,
- parking availability.
Important: Due to the sedation administered during the procedure, patients are advised to be accompanied by a responsible adult who can help them get back to their hotel or place of residence.
Flights after the procedure
Due to sedation:
- Patients must not drive or make important decisions on the day of the procedure.
- Although flights are not strictly prohibited, it is recommended that return flights are booked no earlier than 24 hours after the procedure.
If therapeutic interventions are performed (e.g. polyp removal), the physician may recommend a longer restriction on flying. Exact instructions will be provided after the procedure.
Additional recommendations
- Bring all relevant medical documents, test results, and referrals with you.
- Keep GASTRO CENTRS’s contact information handy for communication before and after the procedure.
- Plan your stay so that you can rest after the procedure.
Contact details
If you have any questions about preparation, travel, or the procedure itself, please contact the GASTRO CENTRS Customer Service in advance by calling +371 26535389.
Guidance for patients travelling by car for examinations
Arrival in Riga before the procedure: minimum 1 day, optimal 2 days before the examination
Patients travelling from abroad by car must arrive in Riga at least one day before their scheduled procedure. This is particularly important for patients undergoing a colonoscopy due to dietary restrictions beginning seven days prior to the procedure and the final preparation required the day before.
The recommendations regarding preparation time, transportation, accommodation and arrival apply as described above.
Preparation for examinations
How to prepare for examinations – GASTRO
How to get to GASTRO CENTRS
The GASTRO CENTRS is located approximately 30 minutes from the centre of Riga, depending on traffic conditions, and can be reached by:
- taxi or licensed ride services;
- pre-arranged private transportation.
Patients using public transport are encouraged to use the Rigas Satiksme route planner.
If needed, the GASTRO CENTRS customer service team can assist with transport planning and arrangements (e.g. taxi booking, parking reservation).
Patients are advised to arrive at the GASTRO CENTRS at least 30 minutes before their scheduled procedure to allow extra time for:
- traffic congestion;
- adverse weather conditions,
- parking availability.
Important: Due to the sedation administered during the procedure, patients are advised to be accompanied by a responsible adult who can help them get back to their hotel or place of residence.
Driving after the procedure
Due to the sedation you will receive during the procedure:
On the same day after the procedure do not drive a vehicle or make important decisions.
It is recommended that you plan your return journey no earlier than 24 hours after the procedure.
If therapeutic manipulations (e.g. polyp removal) were performed during the procedure, the doctor may recommend abstaining from driving for a longer period. The attending physician will provide precise instructions after the procedure.
Additional recommendations
- Bring all relevant medical documents, test results, and referrals with you.
- Keep GASTRO CENTRS’s contact information handy for communication before and after the procedure.
- Plan your stay so that you can rest after the procedure.
Contact details
If you have any questions about preparation, travel, or the procedure itself, please contact the GASTRO CENTRS Customer Service in advance by calling +371 26535389.
Guidance for patients scheduled to have a consultation
Flying and driving before and after the consultation
If you are planning to fly or drive to get to your consultation, there are no specific restrictions on on either mode of travel. However, it is recommended that you arrive in Riga at least one day in advance, to allow time for any unexpected delays or fatigue that could affect the quality of the consultation.
Similarly, you can safely return by plane or motor vehicle after the consultation, unless your doctor has given you specific instructions regarding additional tests or procedures.
Preparation for examinations
How to prepare for examinations – GASTRO
How to get to GASTRO CENTRS
GASTRO CENTRS is located approximately 30 minutes from the centre of Riga, depending on traffic conditions, and can be reached by:
- taxi or licensed ride services;
- pre-arranged private transportation.
Patients using public transport are encouraged to use the Rigas Satiksme route planner.
If needed, the GASTRO CENTRS customer service team can assist with transport planning and arrangements (e.g. taxi booking, parking reservation).
Patients are advised to arrive at the GASTRO CENTRS at least 30 minutes before their scheduled procedure to allow extra time for:
- traffic congestion;
- adverse weather conditions,
- parking availability.
Additional recommendations
- Bring all relevant medical documents, test results, and referrals with you.
- Keep GASTRO CENTRS’s contact information handy for communication before and after the procedure.
- Plan your stay so that you can rest after the procedure.
Contact details
If you have any questions about preparation, travel, or the procedure itself, please contact the GASTRO CENTRS Customer Service in advance by calling +371 26535389.