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Dr Alan Watson

MA MB BChir PHD RCPathME FRCP

Gastroenterologist

26 years of experience

Essex, IG9 5HX

(+4 more)

39 connections in healthcare

Skill endorsed

by Dr Ali Mohammed, Mr Max Whittaker and 18 others

4.98

/5

(107 reviews)

26 years of experience

Essex, IG9 5HX

(+4 more)

39 connections in healthcare

Skill endorsed

by Dr Ali Mohammed, Mr Max Whittaker and 18 others

256 Recommendations for:

Colonoscopy(66)
Endoscopy (OGD)(39)
Gastroenterology(26)
Others(125)

Latest Patient Review

13 Aug 2025

Dr. Watson was amazing. He was kind, patient, and really took the time to explain everything...

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About Dr Alan Watson

Thank you for considering me to assist with your medical care. My aim is to ensure you receive excellent care, with kindness, expertise and great communication. This is backed up by my full time private office, regular clinics and easy access to all you might need.

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Dr. Alan Watson is a highly respected senior Consultant Gastroenterologist, specialising in the diagnosis and management of diseases affecting the gastrointestinal tract and liver. He has advanced skills in endoscopy and colonoscopy and is an accredited bowel cancer screening expert.

He has practiced as a Consultant at Barts Health for 15 years and has deveopled a thriving private practice for over a decade, offering expert care to a wide range of patients.

Dr. Watson graduated with distinction from Cambridge University and completed his training in leading teaching hospitals in the UK, Europe and the USA.

With extensive experience in performing advanced endoscopic examinations, Dr. Watson ensures minimal discomfort for patients, using techniques to resolve issues that once required surgery. His expertise in gastroscopy and colonoscopy allows him to provide highly effective, non-invasive treatments that improve patient outcomes. Dr Watson is a specialist in endoscopy and colonoscopy, with specialist accreditation as part of the National Bowel Cancer Screening Programme.

His commitment to medical excellence extends beyond clinical practice—he also contributed to groundbreaking research during his PhD Fellowship at Cancer Research UK, publishing in prestigious medical journals such as *Nature Medicine* and *Nature*. He continues to be active in research, teaching and clinical audit.

On a more personal note, Dr. Watson's passion for challenge and perseverance shines through in his remarkable achievements. At Cambridge University, he competed in and won the prestigious Boat Race. He has also raised significant funds for charity by rowing across the Atlantic Ocean and ultra-marathon running. His dedication to others, both in and out of the medical field, reflects his genuine commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of those around him.

Dr. Watson’s combination of professional expertise, compassionate care, and personal determination makes him a truly exceptional doctor who always goes the extra mile for his patients.

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Areas of expertise

Based on patient reviews & skill endorsements by other professionals

  • Colonoscopy (66)
  • Endoscopy (OGD) (39)
  • Gastroenterology (26)
  • Others (125)

Subspecialties

  • Neuro-Gastroenterology
  • Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
  • Inflammatory Bowel Diseases (IBD) such as ulcerative Colitis or Crohn's Disease
  • Hepatology
  • General (Internal) Medicine

All conditions and treatments


Registered with

General Medical Council

No. 4583761

Royal College of Physicians

No. 4583761

The Royal College of Pathologists

No. 4583761


Education

University of Cambridge

Neurophysiology

Graduated 1996

University of Cambridge

Medicine

Graduated 1998

University College London, University of London

Cancer stem cell biology

Graduated 2009


Qualifications

MB BChir 1998 University of Cambridge with distintion.

Doctorate in Philosophy (PhD) Universty College, London

Specialist Registration in Gastroenterology & Generlal (internal) medicine.

Elected Fellow of the Royal College of Physicians

Elected Member of the Royal College of Pathologists


Languages spoken

  • English

Consultation fees

  • New appointment: £289
  • Follow-up appointment: £225

insurers

  • Bupa Fee Assured
  • The PHC
  • National Friendly
  • General and Medical
  • Simply Health (Dental)
  • Saga Health Insurance
  • AXA Health
  • The Exeter
  • Healix Health Services
  • Cigna
  • Bupa
  • WPA
  • Allianz Worldwide Care
  • Aviva Health
  • Vitality
  • Aetna
  • Benenden Health
  • Freedom Health Insurance

Location

All locations for Dr Alan Watson

Nuffield Health The Holly Hospital

4.87

(1678)

High Road Buckhurst Hill, Essex, United Kingdom, IG9 5HX

4.93

(562)

High Wych Road, Sawbridgeworth, United Kingdom, CM21 0HH

4.85

(79)

Essex Healthcare Park, West Hanningfield Road, Chelmsford, United Kingdom, CM2 8FR

4.74

(159)

38 Giltspur Road, London, United Kingdom, EC1A 7BS

0

(0)

Whipps Cross Road Leytonstone, London, United Kingdom, E11 1NR

Reviews

5

Dr. Watson was amazing. He was kind, patient, and really took the time to explain everything clearly, I never felt rushed—he made sure all my questions were answered and helped me feel totally comfortable throughout. You can tell he truly cares about his patients and is very thorough. I’m so glad I found him—highly recommend!

13 Aug 2025verified patient
Patient seen for:
Colonoscopy

5

Excellent experience

13 Aug 2025verified patient
Patient seen for:
Colonoscopy

5

I was extremely impressed with the clarity and reassurance provided by Dr Watson at my recent consultations. He was very helpful and had a great manner and I felt very well informed about medical issues I raised. It’s a definite recommendation from me!

12 Aug 2025verified patient

5

I was hugely impressed with my procedure today. Dr Watson was very informative and really put my mind at ease as this was my first time. I was made to feel relaxed and whilst I wasn’t too keen on having this done, which I can imagine applies to most patients,, I am pleased with the care and compassion that was given throughout the whole procedure by Dr Watson and the rest of the team.

11 Aug 2025verified patient
Patient seen for:
Colonoscopy

5

Dr Watson was patient and answered all my questions and has an excellent bedside manner

07 Aug 2025verified patient
Patient seen for:
Gastroenterology

5

Telephone consultation. Dr Watson was very engaging. He was polite, professional and I did not feel rushed. He explained the next steps.

07 Aug 2025verified patient

5

The Sawyer Endoscopy Unit at Whipps Cross Hospital are extremely proficient and caring. From the receptionist to student nurse, Ellie who went through and helped me fill in my registration form, all were very helpful. I met Vee, Previn, Emily, Neomi, led by Dr Watson everyone had a role to play. Time efficient, they were ever so professional towards me. Communicating with me through the procedure pre, during and post the Colonoscopy. With nurse Abiodun doing the aftercare and explaining why l should be careful on the stairs and have my son with me for 24 hours. So l won’t sign any legal transactions because the sedative hasn’t worn off yet. I am so grateful the probe insertion and examination were text- book and everyone was extremely reassuring especially Dr Watson whose report was explained to me and this document was ready for me to take home in 15 minutes. This department is very capable of taking on this kind of investigation. Everything works like clockwork. Quite speedy to - from putting on the gown to being wheeled back and being asked to dress up as the procedure was complete and l was discharged home after nurse Abi or Abiodun gave me my choice of beverage- Coffee and biscuits. She had observed me, we chatted, and my son had a call 20 minutes earlier to pick me up. He walked in and nurse Abiodun explained the supportive role he had to continue with I really hope the MP’s look at this and put the finances behind effective units like this. I hope next time it’s Professor Watson and wish all the staff l met the very best for the future. Thank you soooo muc...

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04 Aug 2025verified patient

5

Dr Watson is consistently an excellent doctor. He has treated me at hospital a number of times now, along with his team of medical staff. Each time he has shown dignity, care and compassion. His excellent professionalism is also shown in his professional manner towards his medical team. His medical knowledge and expertise is reassuring as a patient. I know others who either worked with Dr Watson, or were treated by him, all speaking positively about him as a person and an excellent doctor.

04 Aug 2025verified patient

5

Alan was absolutely fantastic. His professionalism in diagnosing my intestine problems methodically.

01 Aug 2025verified patient

3.5

Dr Watson, his PA and most of the staff were excellent. Alan specifically was exemplar. The staff involved on the day were friendly and professional. The experience communicating via email and over the phone did cause some confusion, specially instructions ahead of the procedure e.g. what can be eaten

30 Jul 2025verified patient
Patient seen for:
Colonoscopy
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Endorsements

Have you worked with this specialist?

Dr Watson is an excellent gastroenterologist colleague who I worked over 10 years time. Dr Watson has very sound and reliable opinion in all gastrointestinal problems.

19 May 2025
Endorsed for
Reflux and Colic
Anal Fissure

Dr Ali Mohammed

Dr Ali Mohammed

Respiratory Medicine
Is a colleague

Dr Watson is a highly experienced gastroenterologist to whom I refer patients regularly. He is highly regarded by patients and colleagues alike. Strongly recommended.

06 May 2025
Endorsed for
Reflux and Colic
Anal Fissure

Mr Max Whittaker

Mr Max Whittaker

Ear Nose & Throat Surgery (ENT/Otolaryngology)
Is a colleague

20 Apr 2025
Endorsed for
Reflux and Colic
Anal Fissure

DB

Dr Daniel Broman

Sports & Exercise Medicine
I have referred patients to them

Dr.Watson is an excellent gastroenterologist who has immense experience in endoscopy proceedures.

15 Mar 2025
Endorsed for
Acid Reflux
Stomach / Abdominal Pain
Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)

Mr Sabu Jacob

Mr Sabu Jacob

General Surgery
Is a colleague
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Get to know Dr Alan Watson

FAQ

What are Dr Alan Watson's reviews like?

Dr Alan Watson's overall patient rating is 4.98 out of 5 stars on Doctify. This is based on 107 reviews.

What languages does Dr Alan Watson speak?

Dr Alan Watson speaks English

Where is Dr Alan Watson located?

Dr Alan Watson primarily practices at Nuffield Health The Holly Hospital, located at High Road Buckhurst Hill, Essex, United Kingdom, IG9 5HX
See more locations

What are Dr Alan Watson working hours?

Dr Alan Watson is working Monday (13:00 - 16:30), Tuesday (15:00 - 19:30), Wednesday (13:00 - 15:30), Thursday (08:30 - 12:30, 08:30 - 12:00), Friday (09:45 - 12:30)

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Does Dr Alan Watson accept new patients?

Dr Alan Watson generally accepts new patients.

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