Dr. John Curtis Nickel – Urologist | Kingston, ON

Dr. John Curtis Nickel 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 Kingston, ON, 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 Ontario (CPSO). Dr. Nickel 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 rooted in a commitment to supporting adult male and female patients through personalized, evidence-based urological care. The clinic is equipped with modern facilities to provide thorough and compassionate urological services.

He graduated with a Medical Degree from Queen's University in Canada and has been practicing as a Urologist since 1983, bringing over 41 years of specialized experience to his patients. Recognized as a RCPSC Specialist by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), Dr. Nickel maintains a high standard of clinical excellence and continuous professional development to stay abreast of the latest advances in urological medicine.

Dr. Nickel’s clinical philosophy centers on patient-centered care, utilizing advanced and minimally invasive techniques when appropriate. He emphasizes thorough patient education, clear communication, and shared decision-making to ensure that each individual receives tailored, effective treatment. Dedicated to serving the Kingston community, he provides care in English, fostering a welcoming and supportive environment for all patients seeking urological health services.

Dr. John Nickel addresses a wide range of urological conditions, including:

Prostate & Male Genital Conditions

• Male Infertility Factors (e.g., Varicocele, Obstructive Azoospermia): Urological conditions contributing to a couple's inability to conceive.
• Erectile Dysfunction (ED): The inability to get or keep an erection firm enough for sexual intercourse.
• Peyronie's Disease: A condition where scar tissue (plaque) forms under the skin of the penis, causing curved, painful erections.

Female Pelvic Health & Urinary Conditions

• Recurrent Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) in Women: Frequent bladder or kidney infections requiring investigation and management.
• Stress Urinary Incontinence (SUI): Involuntary leakage of urine during physical activity like coughing, sneezing, laughing, or exercise.
• 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.

Urologic Cancers

• Prostate Cancer: Cancer that occurs in the prostate — a small walnut-shaped gland in males that produces the seminal fluid.
• 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.

This list is not exhaustive. For personalized advice regarding your specific urological concerns, please consult with Dr. John Nickel.

• Testicular Cancer Diagnosis, Staging & Management: Including radical inguinal orchiectomy and coordination with oncologists for further therapy.
• Comprehensive Urological Consultation & Evaluation: In-depth assessment of urinary tract and male reproductive system conditions, including medical history review, physical examination, and diagnostic planning.
• 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).
• Interstitial Cystitis / Bladder Pain Syndrome (IC/BPS) Management: Multimodal approaches to manage chronic bladder pain and discomfort.
• Prostatitis Management (Acute & Chronic): Diagnosis and treatment of prostate inflammation and infection.
• 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).
• Pelvic Organ Prolapse (POP) Urological Aspects & Surgical Repair (e.g., Cystocele Repair): Evaluation and surgical management of bladder prolapse and other urological components of POP, often in collaboration with urogynecologists.

Note: This list provides a general overview. Treatment plans are individualized. Discuss with Dr. Nickel 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 Ontario (CPSO) and relevant urological care guidelines. Contact the clinic regarding new patient intake and referral processes.

Dr. Nickel practices within a urology department located in the heart of Kingston's Downtown Kingston, Queen's University Area, Sydenham Ward neighborhood. The facility is conveniently situated near Kingston City Hall and Waterfront Hotels, making it accessible for patients visiting from various parts of the city. Public transit options, including Kingston Transit, serve the area, providing easy access for those relying on local transportation. The practice is fully accessible to individuals with mobility challenges, as the facility is wheelchair accessible. Ample parking options are available, including metered street parking and nearby parking lots, ensuring patients can visit comfortably and conveniently for their urological health needs.

Are consultations and treatments with Dr. Nickel, a Urologist, covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON?

Medically necessary consultations with a licensed Urologist like Dr. Nickel, as well as most diagnostic tests (e.g., cystoscopy, urodynamics) and provincially insured surgical procedures, are generally covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON 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. Nickel's office or Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP).

Do I need a referral to see Dr. Nickel, a Urologist?

Yes, for most urological consultations and treatments covered by provincial health plans in ON, a referral from your family physician or another specialist is typically required to see a Urologist like Dr. Nickel. 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 can be done for urinary incontinence?

Urinary incontinence (loss of bladder control) is a common and often treatable condition. Treatment depends on the type of incontinence (stress, urge, mixed, overflow). Options may include lifestyle changes (e.g., fluid management, bladder training), pelvic floor muscle exercises (Kegels), medications, medical devices (like pessaries for women), nerve stimulation, or surgical procedures (such as sling surgery for stress incontinence). Dr. Nickel can help determine the cause and best treatment plan for you.

What does a vasectomy involve if performed by Dr. Nickel?

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. Nickel 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. Nickel beforehand.

76 Stuart Street
Kingston, ON K7L 2V7

Phone: (613) 548-2497 | Fax: (613) 545-1970

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Nickel is a licensed Urologist regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) under the Regulated Health Professions Act, 1991 and Medicine Act, 1991 in ON. A referral from a family physician is typically required for consultations with Dr. Nickel for services covered by the provincial health plan.

Verify registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Nickel-John-Curtis/0037303-51279