About
Dr. James Richard Hayes 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 within a hospital department in Lethbridge, AB, he is an integral part of the local medical community. He adheres to the standards and guidelines set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA), ensuring the delivery of safe, effective, and ethical urological care. Dr. Hayes provides comprehensive care for a wide range of urological issues, including kidney stones, prostate conditions, bladder problems, and male reproductive health concerns. His approach is patient-centered, aiming to improve quality of life through personalized treatment plans. The clinic is equipped with modern facilities to provide thorough and compassionate urological care.
He completed his medical education with an MD CM from the University of Toronto, Canada. Following his graduation, he undertook extensive postgraduate training in urology and holds the necessary specialty certification to practice Urology (Care of the Urinary Tract and Male Reproductive System) in Alberta. His training includes hands-on experience in advanced surgical techniques, minimally invasive procedures, and diagnostic modalities essential for modern urological practice.
Dr. Hayes is committed to delivering patient-focused care by utilizing evidence-based practices and advanced minimally invasive techniques where appropriate. He emphasizes comprehensive patient education to empower individuals in managing their urinary and reproductive health. Fluent in English, he provides attentive and empathetic care to adult male and female patients, ensuring their concerns are addressed with professionalism and compassion.
Dr. James Hayes addresses a wide range of urological conditions, including:
General Urologic Symptoms & Disorders
- Neurogenic Bladder: Bladder dysfunction caused by neurological damage or conditions affecting nerve control of the bladder.
- Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) - Complicated or Recurrent: Infections affecting any part of the urinary system that are frequent, persistent, or associated with underlying factors.
- Painful Urination (Dysuria): Discomfort or burning sensation during urination, often a symptom of infection or inflammation.
Female Pelvic Health & Urinary Conditions
- Urge Urinary Incontinence / Overactive Bladder: Sudden, intense urge to urinate followed by involuntary loss of urine.
- Pelvic Organ Prolapse (Cystocele - Bladder Prolapse): When the bladder drops (prolapses) from its normal position in the pelvis and pushes on the wall of the vagina.
- Urethral Syndrome / Chronic Urethritis: Symptoms of urethral irritation or inflammation without evidence of bacterial infection.
Urologic Cancers
- Kidney Cancer (Renal Cell Carcinoma): Cancer that originates in the kidneys, with renal cell carcinoma being the most common type in adults.
- Testicular Cancer: Cancer that develops in the testicles, a part of the male reproductive system, most common in young men.
- Penile Cancer: A rare type of cancer that occurs on or in the penis.
This list is not exhaustive. For personalized advice regarding your specific urological concerns, please consult with Dr. James Hayes.
- Bladder Cancer Diagnosis & Treatment: Including transurethral resection of bladder tumor (TURBT), intravesical therapy (BCG, chemotherapy), and radical cystectomy.
- Imaging Review & Interpretation (Ultrasound, CT, MRI for Urological Conditions): Expert review of radiological imaging related to the kidneys, bladder, prostate, and other urogenital organs.
- Male Infertility Evaluation & Management (in collaboration with fertility specialists): Investigating causes of male infertility and offering medical or surgical treatments (e.g., varicocele repair, sperm retrieval).
- Vasectomy & Vasectomy Reversal Consultations & Procedures: Performing vasectomy for permanent male contraception and offering consultations/procedures for vasectomy reversal.
- Minimally Invasive Urologic Surgery (Laparoscopic & Robotic-Assisted): Performing complex urological surgeries using small incisions and advanced technology for reduced recovery time (e.g., for prostate, kidney, bladder conditions).
- Laser Surgery for Urological Conditions: Employing various laser technologies for treatments such as BPH (e.g., HoLEP, GreenLight), kidney stones, and bladder tumors.
- Penile & Urethral Cancer Management: Diagnosis and treatment strategies for less common urogenital cancers.
Note: This list provides a general overview. Treatment plans are individualized. Discuss with Dr. Hayes 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 Alberta (CPSA) and relevant urological care guidelines. Contact the clinic regarding new patient intake and referral processes.
Dr. Hayes practices at a urology clinic located in the Downtown Lethbridge, South Lethbridge East neighbourhood. The facility is conveniently situated near the High Level Bridge (CPR Viaduct), providing easy access for patients. Public transit options are available through Lethbridge Transit, with bus stops nearby. The clinic is wheelchair accessible, ensuring ease of entry for all patients. Paid parking options are conveniently located close to the facility, making visits straightforward and accessible for those coming from various parts of the city.
- Are consultations and treatments with Dr. Hayes, a Urologist, covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) in AB?
- Medically necessary consultations with a licensed Urologist like Dr. Hayes, as well as most diagnostic tests (e.g., cystoscopy, urodynamics) and provincially insured surgical procedures, are generally covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) in AB 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. Hayes's office or Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP).
- Do I need a referral to see Dr. Hayes, a Urologist?
- Yes, for most urological consultations and treatments covered by provincial health plans in AB, a referral from your family physician or another specialist is typically required to see a Urologist like Dr. Hayes. 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 are the treatment options for an enlarged prostate (BPH)?
- Treatment for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) depends on the severity of your symptoms and how much they affect your quality of life. Options range from lifestyle changes and medications to minimally invasive procedures (like UroLift, Rezum) and surgical treatments (such as TURP or laser prostatectomy). Dr. Hayes can discuss the most suitable options for you based on your individual circumstances.
- When should I consider seeing a Urologist?
- You should consider seeing a Urologist if you experience symptoms such as blood in your urine (hematuria), recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs), difficulty urinating (hesitancy, weak stream, straining), frequent or urgent need to urinate, urinary incontinence (leakage), pain in the flank, lower abdomen, or groin that might be related to kidney stones, or any concerns related to the male reproductive organs (e.g., testicular pain/lumps, erectile dysfunction, male infertility). Your family doctor can help determine if a referral to a urologist like Dr. Hayes is appropriate.
1903 9 Ave S
Lethbridge, AB T1J 1W8
Phone: (403) 328-0286
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Hayes is a licensed Urologist regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) under the Health Professions Act in AB. A referral from a family physician is typically required for consultations with Dr. Hayes for services covered by the provincial health plan.
Verify registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA): https://search.cpsa.ca/PhysicianProfile?e=2780d1df-53de-46bd-b6bb-863ae58d552a&i=602