The prostate diagnostic assessment unit (DAU) is a one-stop shop for patients experiencing prostate-related concerns. Located at our Centenary hospital, the aim of this clinic is to shorten patients’ wait times for consultation and time to biopsy, pathology results, and treatment by providing you with 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 treatment of prostate health conditions.
- Support and assessment of an oncology nurse navigator throughout the diagnostic and treatment phase of the patient’s journey.
- Availability of radiation and medical oncologists specializing in evidenced-based treatment strategies for prostate cancer.
- Services of an interventional radiologist specializing in prostate biopsy procedures.
- Support of an in-hospital pathologist throughout the diagnostic and treatment-decision stages.
How the Prostate DAU Works
Every patient coming to the prostate DAU is looked after by one of our urologists throughout your journey of care — from initial consultation and biopsy, to treatment and follow-up care if needed. If the biopsy comes back positive for cancer, you will have the option to treat the cancer with surgery, radiation or active surveillance, which includes regular follow-up appointments to check for disease progression and to ensure that treatment is started at an optimum time.
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 DAU, please have your family physician complete our referral form and fax it to 416-281-7228. Our clerical staff will book the next available appointment and notify you.
Download the Prostate Diagnostic Referral Form
For more information, please call 416-284-8131 ext. 5318 or email us at pdau@SHN.ca.