A Local Expert Guide for Camden, Narellan & Macarthur Residents
Camden is growing rapidly. New homes, new families, and new communities are expanding across Narellan, Mount Annan, Oran Park, Harrington Park, and Spring Farm at an extraordinary pace. But one thing that has not kept pace is easy access to specialist gastrointestinal surgical care close to home.
Most Camden residents experiencing persistent digestive symptoms — stomach pain, bloating, heartburn, changes in bowel habits, or rectal bleeding — start with their GP. That is the right first step. But when symptoms persist, investigations are needed, or surgery is recommended, the next question is: where do I go from here? Who is the right specialist? And how urgent is this?
This guide answers those questions. Dr Devesh Kaushal is an upper GI and general surgeon who consults at nearby Campbelltown (4 Hyde Parade, Campbelltown — approximately 15 minutes from central Camden) and provides gastrointestinal surgical care, including assessment, investigation and surgical management where appropriate, for Macarthur region patients. This guide explains which digestive symptoms warrant a specialist review, what a gastrointestinal surgeon does, and how to access care from Camden.
GI Surgeon Near Camden: 4 Hyde Parade, Campbelltown NSW 2560 Appointments within 4–8 weeks (availability varies according to clinical urgency) | Book online at drdeveshkaushal.com.au | Call (02) 7906 8312 |
Digestive Health in Camden: The Local Context
Digestive conditions are extremely common across all demographics. Camden is a rapidly growing and diverse community, and the lifestyle pressures of commuter life — long work hours, processed food consumption, physical inactivity, and high stress — all contribute to a high burden of gastrointestinal disease in the region.
Conditions like gallstone disease, irritable bowel syndrome, inflammatory bowel disease, gastro-oesophageal reflux, fatty liver disease, and bowel cancer do not discriminate by postcode. They affect Camden residents at the same rates as anywhere else in Sydney — but access to specialist investigation and treatment has historically been more difficult.
Dr Kaushal’s Campbelltown rooms exist to close that gap.
What Does a Gastrointestinal Surgeon Actually Do?
Many Camden patients are unsure of the difference between their GP, a gastroenterologist, and a gastrointestinal surgeon. Here is a clear breakdown:
Specialist | Role |
GP | First point of contact for digestive symptoms. Diagnoses common conditions, prescribes basic treatments, orders blood tests, and refers to specialists when needed. |
Gastroenterologist | Specialist physician who investigates and manages digestive conditions medically — using endoscopy, colonoscopy, medication, and lifestyle advice. Does not perform surgery. |
GI Surgeon (Dr Kaushal) | Specialist surgeon who provides assessment, investigation and surgical management where appropriate. Dr Kaushal performs both endoscopy/colonoscopy and surgery. |
As an upper gastrointestinal surgeon who also performs gastroscopy and colonoscopy, Dr Kaushal can assess many digestive conditions from diagnosis through to treatment where appropriate. |
10 Digestive Symptoms Camden Residents Should Not Ignore
Use the urgency guide below to understand how quickly to act on your symptoms. Colour-coded cards show you whether to seek care urgently, soon, or within the next few weeks.
🔴 High | See a specialist promptly — within days to 2 weeks. Do not wait. |
🟡 Medium | Book an appointment within 2–4 weeks — do not keep putting it off. |
🔵 Low | Schedule within 4–8 weeks — symptoms manageable but worth investigating. |
1 | Persistent Upper Abdominal Pain A recurring ache, cramping, or sharp pain in the upper or right-sided abdomen — particularly if it comes on after eating fatty foods or is severe enough to wake you at night — is one of the most common presentations of gallstone disease and other upper GI conditions. Camden patients often attribute this to “indigestion” for months before seeking assessment. This symptom deserves proper investigation. Action: See a GI surgeon within 2–4 weeks. Recurring upper abdominal pain has a cause that needs identifying. |
2 | Rectal Bleeding or Blood in the Stool Any visible blood in the toilet bowl, on toilet paper, or mixed through your stool should always be investigated — regardless of age. While haemorrhoids are common in Camden’s younger population, rectal bleeding is also one of the earliest signs of bowel polyps and bowel cancer. Bright red blood is usually from the lower bowel; dark or tarry stools indicate upper GI bleeding. Action: See your GP and request urgent referral. Do not assume it is haemorrhoids without proper assessment. |
3 | Persistent Heartburn or Acid Reflux Heartburn that occurs more than twice a week, is not controlled by over-the-counter antacids, or wakes you at night with acid in your throat is gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD) — not just “bad indigestion”. Left unassessed and untreated, chronic GORD can cause oesophageal damage, Barrett’s oesophagus (a pre-cancerous change), and — rarely — oesophageal cancer. Action: See a GI surgeon within 2–4 weeks. Do not manage persistent reflux with antacids alone indefinitely. |
4 | Change in Bowel Habits Lasting More Than 4 Weeks A significant, unexplained change in your normal bowel pattern — whether diarrhoea, constipation, or alternating between both — that has lasted more than 4 weeks needs specialist investigation. This is particularly important if the change is new, has no obvious cause such as a dietary change, and is associated with any other symptoms. A persistent change in bowel habits is a key warning sign of bowel cancer. Action: See a GI surgeon promptly — especially if associated with bleeding, weight loss, or abdominal pain. |
5 | Unexplained Weight Loss Losing weight without trying — when combined with any digestive symptom such as pain, loss of appetite, difficulty swallowing, or a change in bowel habits — is one of the most important warning signs in gastrointestinal medicine. It can be associated with a range of GI cancers, chronic inflammation, or malabsorption conditions. Feeling well does not rule out a serious underlying cause. Action: See a GI surgeon urgently — within days to 1 week. Do not attribute unexplained weight loss to lifestyle factors without investigation. |
6 | Bloating and Excessive Gas That Does Not Settle Persistent bloating — particularly if it is new, progressively worsening, or associated with visible abdominal distension, pain, or changes in bowel habits — goes beyond “a sensitive stomach”. Chronic bloating can be caused by gallbladder disease, IBS, inflammatory bowel disease, coeliac disease, small intestinal bacterial overgrowth, or bowel obstruction. Camden residents often spend years attributing this to diet without ever receiving a proper diagnosis. Action: Book within 2–4 weeks — sooner if severe, painful, or associated with other symptoms. |
7 | Difficulty Swallowing Any sensation of food sticking in the chest or throat, or the need to avoid certain foods because they are difficult to swallow, should always be investigated promptly. Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) can indicate a range of conditions from benign oesophageal stricture to oesophageal cancer. It should never be dismissed as “anxiety” or “eating too fast” without proper assessment. Action: See a GI surgeon promptly — within 1–2 weeks. Dysphagia must always be investigated. |
8 | Jaundice — Yellow Skin or Eyes A yellow tinge to the skin or whites of the eyes — often accompanied by dark urine and pale stools — indicates a problem in the liver, gallbladder, or bile ducts. Common causes include bile duct obstruction from a gallstone, liver disease, or — in rare cases — pancreatic or bile duct cancer. Jaundice is never a symptom to wait out. Action: See a doctor urgently — same day or emergency department if developing rapidly. |
9 | A Lump or Bulge in the Groin or Abdomen A visible or palpable lump in the groin, around the belly button, or along a previous scar — particularly one that appears when you stand or strain and disappears when you lie down — is very likely a hernia. Hernias do not resolve on their own, and the risk of serious complications (incarceration, strangulation) increases over time without repair. This is the most common surgical referral from Camden GPs. Action: See a GI surgeon within 2–4 weeks for assessment. Urgent if the lump becomes hard, painful, or will not reduce. |
10 | Nausea, Vomiting, or Persistent Loss of Appetite Nausea or vomiting that occurs consistently after eating — particularly after fatty meals — combined with upper abdominal pain is a classic presentation of gallbladder disease. Loss of appetite that persists beyond a few days, or is associated with weight loss or early satiety (feeling full after eating very little), warrants specialist assessment. Vomiting that contains blood or resembles coffee grounds is a gastrointestinal emergency. Action: See a GI surgeon within 2–4 weeks. If vomiting blood — present to emergency immediately. |
When Is It a Gastrointestinal Emergency?
The following symptoms are red flags that require immediate emergency assessment — not a booked appointment:
⚠ Go to Emergency Immediately if You Have: • Sudden, severe abdominal pain — especially if the abdomen feels rigid or board-like • Vomiting blood or passing black, tarry stools • Fever with severe abdominal pain and jaundice together • A hernia that becomes hard, painful, and cannot be pushed back in • Signs of bowel obstruction — severe bloating, vomiting, inability to pass wind or stool • Chest pain with acid reflux (must rule out cardiac causes — call 000)
Present to Campbelltown Hospital Emergency or your nearest emergency department immediately. Do not drive yourself if you are in severe pain. |
How Camden Residents Can See a GI Surgeon Near Them
Many Camden residents assume they need to travel to Westmead, Royal Prince Alfred, or another major metropolitan hospital to see a specialist gastrointestinal surgeon. This is not the case. Dr Kaushal’s Campbelltown rooms are approximately 15 to 20 minutes from central Camden — easily accessible from Narellan, Mount Annan, Harrington Park, Oran Park, and Spring Farm.
Location | Distance to Consulting Rooms (approx.) |
Camden | 15 minutes |
Narellan | 10 minutes |
Mount Annan | 12 minutes |
Harrington Park | 12 minutes |
Oran Park | 18 minutes |
Spring Farm | 15 minutes |
Gregory Hills | 8 minutes |
How to get a referral from Camden:
- Visit your Camden GP and describe your symptoms clearly
- Request a referral to Dr Devesh Kaushal at Campbelltown (4 Hyde Parade, Campbelltown NSW 2560)
- Bring any relevant blood test results, ultrasound reports, or previous investigations to your appointment
- Book your appointment online at drdeveshkaushal.com.au or call (02) 7906 8312
Common Gastrointestinal Conditions Dr Kaushal Treats for Camden Patients
Gallbladder disease and gallstones
Gallstone disease is one of the most common reasons Camden patients are referred to a GI surgeon. Symptoms include right upper abdominal pain after fatty meals, nausea, and bloating. Left untreated, gallstones can cause acute cholecystitis, bile duct obstruction, and pancreatitis. Dr Kaushal performs laparoscopic cholecystectomy (keyhole gallbladder removal) as a same-day procedure in most cases.
Hernia
Inguinal (groin), umbilical (belly button), and incisional hernias are extremely common — particularly among Camden’s working-age population. Dr Kaushal performs laparoscopic hernia repair as a day surgery procedure, with most patients returning to desk work within 1 to 2 weeks.
Bowel cancer screening and polyp removal
Bowel cancer is the second most common cancer in Australia — and Camden is not immune. Patients who receive a positive FOBT result from the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program, or who have a family history of bowel cancer, should see Dr Kaushal for colonoscopy. Polyps found during colonoscopy are removed at the same procedure, preventing future cancer development.
Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD) and hiatus hernia
Chronic acid reflux affects a significant proportion of Camden adults — particularly those with a sedentary lifestyle, obesity, or South Asian dietary patterns. Dr Kaushal provides complete GORD management: from gastroscopy and assessment through to laparoscopic fundoplication for patients whose reflux is not controlled by medication.
Inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis)
Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis are conditions that require specialist management and regular colonoscopic surveillance. Dr Kaushal provides IBD assessment, colonoscopy, medical management coordination, and surgical treatment for complications — in collaboration with gastroenterologists and other specialists.
Fatty liver disease
Fatty liver (NAFLD) affects approximately 1 in 3 Australian adults and is increasingly prevalent in Camden is a rapidly growing and diverse community. Dr Kaushal provides FibroScan assessment, liver function monitoring, and personalised weight management guidance for patients with fatty liver disease.
Why Camden Patients Choose Dr Kaushal as Their GI Surgeon
- FRACS qualified — Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons
- 15+ years of specialist experience across the full range of GI conditions
- Both endoscopist and surgeon — diagnosis and treatment under one specialist
- Consulting rooms at Campbelltown — 15 minutes from central Camden
- Surgical privileges at Campbelltown Public, Campbelltown Private, Sydney Southwest Private Liverpool, and The George Hospital
- Dr Kaushal maintains an active interest in clinical research and evidence-based practice
- Public and private patients welcome — Medicare rebates and private health insurance accepted
- Appointment availability varies according to clinical urgency (typically within 4–8 weeks)
Frequently Asked Questions — GI Surgeon Near Camden
Is there a gastrointestinal surgeon near Camden?
Yes. Dr Devesh Kaushal consults at 4 Hyde Parade, Campbelltown NSW 2560 — approximately 15 minutes from central Camden and easily accessible from Narellan, Mount Annan, Harrington Park, and Oran Park. He provides gastrointestinal surgical care for Macarthur region patients, including colonoscopy, gastroscopy, gallbladder surgery, hernia repair, and bowel surgery.
How do I know if I need a GI surgeon or just my GP?
Your GP is the right starting point for any digestive symptom. However, if your symptoms are persistent, worsening, associated with red flag features (bleeding, weight loss, jaundice, difficulty swallowing), or if investigations are needed that your GP cannot perform (colonoscopy, gastroscopy), referral to a GI surgeon is the next step. Dr Kaushal works closely with Camden GPs to ensure a smooth, coordinated referral process.
How quickly can Camden patients get an appointment?
Appointment availability varies according to clinical urgency, and is typically within 4 to 8 weeks. For urgent symptoms — rectal bleeding, suspected bowel obstruction, jaundice, difficulty swallowing, or a positive FOBT result — please call (02) 7906 8312 directly so the team can prioritise your booking. Book online at drdeveshkaushal.com.au.
Do I need a referral to see Dr Kaushal from Camden?
A GP referral is required to access Medicare rebates for your consultation and any subsequent investigations or procedures. Visit your Camden GP, explain your symptoms, and request a referral to Dr Kaushal at the Campbelltown rooms. If your symptoms are urgent, emphasise this to your GP so an urgent referral can be provided.
Can I see Dr Kaushal as a public patient?
Yes. Dr Kaushal sees public patients at Campbelltown Hospital. If you do not have private health insurance or prefer to be treated as a public patient, this is available — though waiting times for non-urgent elective procedures may be longer than for private patients. Contact the rooms on (02) 7906 8312 to discuss your options.
Don't Ignore Your Digestive Symptoms — Book Today
If you are a Camden, Narellan, Mount Annan, Harrington Park, Oran Park, or Spring Farm resident experiencing any of the digestive symptoms described in this guide — do not keep putting off getting assessed. Expert gastrointestinal surgical care is available just 15 minutes away at Dr Kaushal’s Campbelltown rooms.
A single consultation appointment will give you a clear diagnosis, a recommended investigation or treatment plan, and answers to all your questions — without the need to travel into central Sydney.
Contact Dr Devesh Kaushal Nearest Rooms to Camden: 4 Hyde Parade, Campbelltown NSW 2560 Phone: (02) 7906 8312 Email: [email protected] Book Online: drdeveshkaushal.com.au Office Hours: Monday – Friday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Operating at: Sydney Southwest Private Hospital Liverpool | Campbelltown Public Hospital | Campbelltown Private Hospital | The George Hospital Appointment availability varies according to clinical urgency (typically within 4–8 weeks) | Book online 24/7 | Medicare & Private Health Insurance Accepted |
Expert GI surgical care is available near Camden — just 15 minutes away. Don’t let distance be the reason you delay.
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