Prostate Diagnostic Assessment Clinic

The Prostate Diagnostic Assessment Clinic is a comprehensive solution for patients with prostate cancer-related concerns. Located at our Centenary site, the aim of this clinic is to shorten patients’ wait times for consultation and time to biopsy, pathology results, and treatment, by providing access to a full range of hospital services and specialists.

Our Services

• Expert consultation, treatment options and follow-up care from one of our urologists specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of prostate cancer.
• Support and assessment provided by an oncology nurse navigator who will accompany you throughout the diagnostic and treatment phases of your journey, offering guidance, education, and emotional support.
• Availability of surgical, radiation and medical oncologists specializing in evidenced-based treatment strategies for prostate cancer.
• Transperineal Prostate Biopsy, a minimally invasive procedure performed under local anesthesia. Unlike traditional biopsy methods, transperineal biopsy involves accessing the prostate through the perineum, rather than the rectum, resulting in lower risk of infection and a higher chance of accurately sampling the prostate. This approach provides a safer and more effective diagnostic method for prostate cancer detection.
• Advanced prostate magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) services, which play a crucial role in the accurate detection and evaluation of prostate cancer. Prostate MRI utilizes high-resolution imaging techniques to provide detailed information about the prostate gland, enabling our specialists to identify potential abnormalities and target areas of concern for further assessment. This non-invasive procedure helps in improving diagnostic accuracy and guiding personalized diagnostic plans.
• Comprehensive genetic screening tests and advanced molecular testing to assess the risk of prostate cancer.* These tests analyze specific genes and molecular markers associated with prostate cancer, providing valuable insights into an individual’s predisposition to the disease. This information aids in developing personalized screening and treatment plans tailored to each patient’s unique genetic profile.  

*some services are not insured by OHIP

How the Prostate Diagnostic Assessment Clinic Works

Every patient coming to the Prostate Diagnostic Assessment Clinic is looked after by one of our urologists throughout their journey of care — from initial consultation and biopsy, to treatment and follow-up care if needed.

If you are diagnosed with prostate cancer, your urologist will discuss different options with you, which include active surveillance to monitor the cancer, surgery to have the prostate removed, radiation to the prostate or hormone therapy. We understand that patients can feel very anxious and overwhelmed. That is why our urologists partner with a nurse navigator, who is there to give you support and education. The nurse navigator will discuss the urologist’s assessment with you and answer questions so that you can make an informed decision about a treatment plan that is right for you.

If the decision is to go with active surveillance or surgery, your urologist is there to provide all aspects of care. If the decision is to get radiation, SHN partners with the Durham Region Cancer Centre (through Lakeridge Health in Oshawa) and the Odette Cancer Centre (through Sunnybrook Hospital in Toronto). Radiation oncologists provide assessment at Centenary, and then treatment is given at the regional centre of your choice.

Making an Appointment

If you have symptoms related to prostate disease and would like to be seen by one of our urologists at the Prostate Diagnostic Assessment Clinic, please have your family physician send in a referral for you. Our clerical staff will book the next available appointment and notify you.

Fax Referral

Physician referrals may be faxed to 416-281-7228.

For more information, please call 416-284-8131 ext. 5318 or email us at pdau@SHN.ca.