Description
About Dr. David Ian Harriman
Dr. David Ian Harriman is a dedicated Urologist specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of conditions affecting the urinary tract in men and women, and the male reproductive system. Practicing at a urology clinic or hospital department in Vancouver, BC, he is an integral part of the local medical community. His practice adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC). Dr. Harriman provides comprehensive care for a wide range of urological issues, including kidney stones, prostate conditions, bladder problems, and male reproductive health concerns. His approach emphasizes patient-centered care, ensuring that each individual receives tailored treatment strategies within a modern facility equipped for advanced urological procedures.
He graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of British Columbia (Canada) and holds specialty certification as a Urologist. Dr. Harriman has obtained key certifications including those from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, affirming his expertise and commitment to maintaining the highest standards in urological care. His ongoing professional development ensures that he remains current with the latest advancements and best practices in urology.
Dr. Harriman’s clinical philosophy is rooted in providing compassionate, evidence-based, and minimally invasive urological care. He values clear communication, comprehensive patient education, and shared decision-making. Dedicated to serving adult male and female patients in Vancouver, he strives to deliver accessible, high-quality urological services in a welcoming and professional environment. Dr. Harriman speaks English fluently and is committed to addressing each patient’s unique needs with expertise and empathy.
Common Conditions Dr. David Harriman Addresses
Dr. David Harriman addresses a wide range of urological conditions, including:
Urologic Cancers
- Bladder Cancer: Cancer that begins in the cells of the bladder, most commonly in the urothelial cells lining the inside of the bladder.
- Ureteral & Renal Pelvis Cancer: Cancers that form in the urothelial cells lining the ureters (tubes connecting kidneys to bladder) or renal pelvis (funnel-like part of kidney).
- Penile Cancer: A rare type of cancer that occurs on or in the penis.
Female Pelvic Health & Urinary Conditions
- Urethral Syndrome / Chronic Urethritis: Symptoms of urethral irritation or inflammation without evidence of bacterial infection.
- Stress Urinary Incontinence (SUI): Involuntary leakage of urine during physical activity like coughing, sneezing, laughing, or exercise.
- Urge Urinary Incontinence / Overactive Bladder: Sudden, intense urge to urinate followed by involuntary loss of urine.
General Urologic Symptoms & Disorders
- Urinary Frequency, Urgency & Nocturia: Symptoms of needing to urinate often, suddenly, or frequently during the night, which can indicate various underlying conditions.
- Neurogenic Bladder: Bladder dysfunction caused by neurological damage or conditions affecting nerve control of the bladder.
- Hematuria (Blood in Urine): Presence of red blood cells in the urine, requiring investigation to determine the cause (e.g., infection, stones, tumors).
This list is not exhaustive. For personalized advice regarding your specific urological concerns, please consult with Dr. David Harriman.
Urologist Services Offered by Dr. David Ian Harriman
- Open Urological Surgery (for complex cases): Traditional surgical approaches for conditions not amenable to minimally invasive techniques.
- Prostate Cancer Diagnosis, Staging & Multimodal Management: Including active surveillance, radical prostatectomy (open, laparoscopic, robotic), radiation therapy coordination, and hormone therapy.
- Cystoscopy (Diagnostic & Therapeutic): Minimally invasive procedure using a thin, lighted scope to examine the bladder and urethra, with capabilities for biopsy or minor treatments.
- Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) / Enlarged Prostate Management: Medical and surgical treatments for lower urinary tract symptoms caused by non-cancerous prostate enlargement (e.g., TURP, UroLift, Rezum, medication).
- Vasectomy & Vasectomy Reversal Consultations & Procedures: Performing vasectomy for permanent male contraception and offering consultations/procedures for vasectomy reversal.
- Erectile Dysfunction (ED) Diagnosis & Treatment: Comprehensive evaluation and management of ED, including oral medications, injection therapy, vacuum devices, and penile prosthesis surgery.
- Peyronie's Disease Treatment: Medical and surgical options for managing penile curvature caused by Peyronie's disease.
Note: This list provides a general overview. Treatment plans are individualized. Discuss with Dr. Harriman for care relevant to your needs.
All medical services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) and relevant urological care guidelines. Contact the clinic regarding new patient intake and referral processes.
Practice Location & Accessibility
Dr. Harriman practices at a urology clinic within a hospital department located in Vancouver's Fairview neighborhood. The facility is conveniently situated near The Drive' Neighbourhood, easily accessible via public transit options including TransLink's SkyTrain Expo, Millennium, and Canada Lines, as well as bus services, SeaBus, and West Coast Express at Waterfront Station. The clinic is wheelchair accessible, ensuring ease of access for all patients. Metered street parking and nearby parking lots are available for those arriving by car, providing flexible options for patient convenience.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are consultations and treatments with Dr. Harriman, a Urologist, covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC?
- Medically necessary consultations with a licensed Urologist like Dr. Harriman, as well as most diagnostic tests (e.g., cystoscopy, urodynamics) and provincially insured surgical procedures, are generally covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC when a referral from a family doctor or another specialist is in place. Some newer technologies, medications, or elective procedures (like cosmetic urology or certain non-insured infertility treatments) may not be covered or may require special authorization. It's always recommended to discuss coverage specifics with Dr. Harriman's office or Medical Services Plan (MSP).
- Do I need a referral to see Dr. Harriman, a Urologist?
- Yes, for most urological consultations and treatments covered by provincial health plans in BC, a referral from your family physician or another specialist is typically required to see a Urologist like Dr. Harriman. This ensures your care is coordinated and appropriate. Some specific services, like vasectomy in certain private clinic settings, might occasionally be accessed directly, but for general urological assessment or provincially insured care, a referral is the standard pathway.
- What does a vasectomy involve if performed by Dr. Harriman?
- A vasectomy is a minor surgical procedure for permanent male contraception. It involves cutting or blocking the vas deferens, the tubes that carry sperm from the testicles. Dr. Harriman would perform this procedure, usually in an outpatient setting under local anesthesia. It's a highly effective form of birth control. It's important to discuss the procedure, potential risks, and the fact that it's considered permanent with Dr. Harriman beforehand.
- What is a PSA test and who should have it?
- The PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) test is a blood test primarily used to screen for prostate cancer. PSA is a protein produced by cells of the prostate gland. The decision to have a PSA test is best made in consultation with your doctor, like Dr. Harriman, after discussing the potential benefits, risks, and limitations of screening. Factors such as age, family history of prostate cancer, and ethnicity are often considered. It's not a perfect test, as elevated PSA can also be caused by non-cancerous conditions like BPH or prostatitis.
- What is a cystoscopy and why might I need one?
- A cystoscopy is a procedure that allows your urologist, such as Dr. Harriman, to look directly inside your bladder and urethra using a thin, lighted instrument called a cystoscope. It might be recommended to investigate symptoms like blood in the urine, frequent UTIs, bladder pain, or difficulty urinating. It can also be used to take biopsies or perform minor treatments. He will explain the procedure and any preparation needed.
Contact & Licensing Information
2775 Laurel St, Gordon and Leslie Diamond Health Care Centre, UBC Department of Urology - 6th floor
Vancouver, BC V5Z 1M9
Phone: (604) 875-5003
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Harriman is a licensed Urologist regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) under the Health Professions Act in BC. A referral from a family physician is typically required for consultations with Dr. Harriman for services covered by the provincial health plan.
Verify registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/333590/Harriman%2CDavid