About
Dr. Matthew Stephen Harding is a dedicated Nephrologist, committed to providing exceptional medical care for adult patients with kidney conditions. Practicing at a specialized nephrology clinic in Victoria in Victoria, BC, he is a trusted provider of specialized kidney care in the community. His practice adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC). Dr. Harding's focus is on the diagnosis, treatment, and comprehensive management of kidney diseases, including chronic kidney disease, acute kidney injury, hypertension, and electrolyte disorders. The clinic offers comprehensive care for a wide range of kidney conditions, from early detection and prevention to advanced disease management, including support for patients on dialysis.
He graduated with an MD from the University of Calgary in 2015. Following medical school, he completed a residency in Internal Medicine, followed by specialized fellowship training in Nephrology. Dr. Harding is a board-certified Nephrologist with over 4 years of specialized experience since 2020. He holds key certifications including Certification by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, ensuring adherence to rigorous professional standards and ongoing education in his field.
Dr. Harding's professional philosophy centers on preserving kidney function and improving the quality of life for patients with kidney disease. He is dedicated to educating patients and their families about kidney health, empowering them in shared decision-making. Utilizing evidence-based medicine and advanced therapies, he aims for optimal patient outcomes. His approach emphasizes early detection, prevention of disease progression, and comprehensive management of kidney-related complications. Dr. Harding collaborates closely with primary care physicians, dietitians, social workers, and other specialists to ensure holistic care. All communication and patient care are provided in English, with a compassionate and patient-centered approach.
Dr. Matthew Harding provides expert diagnosis and management for a wide range of kidney conditions, including:
Acute Kidney Injury (AKI)
Dr. Harding addresses a sudden episode of kidney failure or kidney damage that happens within a few hours or a few days.
- Pre-renal AKI: Caused by reduced blood flow to the kidneys, often due to severe dehydration, blood loss, heart failure, or sepsis.
- Intrinsic AKI (Renal AKI): Kidney biopsy may be needed for diagnosis in some cases.
- Contrast-Induced Nephropathy: A form of AKI that can occur after exposure to iodinated contrast media used in imaging procedures.
Glomerular Diseases (Glomerulonephritis)
Dr. Harding addresses disorders that affect the glomeruli, the tiny filtering units within the kidneys, often leading to proteinuria, hematuria, and impaired kidney function.
- Nephrotic Syndrome: Characterized by heavy proteinuria (protein in urine), low blood albumin, edema (swelling), and high cholesterol.
- Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis (FSGS): Can be primary or secondary to other conditions. Treatment options vary.
- Nephritic Syndrome: Characterized by hematuria (blood in urine), hypertension, oliguria (reduced urine output), and some degree of proteinuria and edema.
Hypertension and Electrolyte Disorders
Dr. Harding addresses nephrologists are experts in diagnosing and treating complex cases.
- Resistant Hypertension: Often requires specialized nephrology input.
- Secondary Hypertension: High blood pressure caused by an underlying medical condition, such as kidney disease, adrenal gland disorders, or renal artery stenosis.
- Disorders of Potassium Balance (Hypokalemia, Hyperkalemia): Management involves identifying the cause (e.g., medications, kidney disease, hormonal issues) and correcting the imbalance.
This list is not exhaustive. For a comprehensive evaluation of your kidney health, a consultation with Dr. Matthew Harding is necessary.
- Anemia and Mineral & Bone Disorder Management in CKD: Treatment of anemia associated with chronic kidney disease using iron therapy and erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESAs).
- Glomerular Disease (Glomerulonephritis) Diagnosis and Treatment: Evaluation and management of various glomerular diseases like IgA nephropathy, FSGS, lupus nephritis, and membranous nephropathy.
- Management of Diabetic Kidney Disease (Diabetic Nephropathy): Close collaboration with endocrinologists and primary care physicians.
- Peritoneal Dialysis Program Management (CAPD/APD): Home-based therapy allowing for greater lifestyle flexibility.
- Medical Management of Kidney Stones (Nephrolithiasis): Collaboration with urologists for stone removal procedures when indicated.
- Management of Dialysis Complications: Nutritional counseling and psychosocial support coordination.
Note: This list provides an overview. Specific treatments are determined after a thorough evaluation and consultation with Dr. Harding.
All nephrology services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) and relevant Canadian Society of Nephrology (CSN) and Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) guidelines. A referral from a physician or another specialist is generally required for consultation.
Dr. Harding's primary nephrology clinic is situated within a well-established kidney care center in Victoria's vibrant neighborhood. The clinic is conveniently located near the BC Parliament Buildings, making it accessible for patients across the region. The facility is easily reachable via the Victoria Regional Transit System (BC Transit), ensuring accessible transportation options. The clinic is designed to be accessible and comfortable for all patients, providing a professional and welcoming environment for comprehensive kidney care. Patients can usually find convenient parking options in proximity to the kidney care center, facilitating easy visits for ongoing management and consultations.
- What does a Nephrologist like Dr. Harding specialize in?
- Dr. Harding is a Nephrologist, a physician with specialized training in kidney health and disease. He manages the full spectrum of kidney disorders, from early detection and prevention to advanced therapies like dialysis and post-transplant care. specializing in the diagnosis, treatment, and comprehensive management of kidney diseases, including chronic kidney disease, acute kidney injury, hypertension, and electrolyte disorders.
- What is involved in the kidney transplant process with a Nephrologist like Dr. Harding?
- As a Nephrologist, Dr. Harding plays a crucial role in the kidney transplant process. This includes evaluating your suitability for a transplant, managing your health while on the waiting list, coordinating with the transplant surgical team, and providing comprehensive medical care after the transplant to manage immunosuppressive medications and monitor for complications or rejection. He works as part of a multidisciplinary transplant team.
- When should I see a Nephrologist like Dr. Harding?
- A consultation with Dr. Harding is recommended if your doctor detects abnormalities in kidney function tests, you have a strong family history of kidney disease, or you require specialized management for conditions like advanced chronic kidney disease, glomerulonephritis, or are being considered for dialysis or kidney transplant. Any sudden decline in kidney function also warrants urgent nephrology review.
- What is the difference between a Nephrologist like Dr. Harding and a Urologist?
- The key difference lies in their approach: Dr. Harding, as a Nephrologist, is an expert in the medical treatment of kidney diseases and functional kidney problems (e.g., how well kidneys filter blood, manage electrolytes, and produce urine). A Urologist is a surgeon who deals with physical problems of the urinary system, including surgical removal of kidney stones or tumors, and issues with the bladder, ureters, and male reproductive organs. They often collaborate on patient care.
- Are services from Dr. Harding covered by provincial health insurance?
- Medically necessary services provided by a Nephrologist like Dr. Harding, such as consultations, diagnostic tests for kidney disease, management of chronic kidney disease, dialysis treatments (hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis), and kidney transplant-related care, are generally covered by your provincial health plan, Medical Services Plan (MSP). Medically necessary consultations, diagnostic tests for kidney disease, management of chronic kidney disease, dialysis treatments (hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis), and medical care related to kidney transplantation are generally covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP). Preventive counseling for high-risk individuals referred by a physician is also typically covered. It's always best to confirm coverage specifics with Dr. Harding's office or Medical Services Plan (MSP) directly, as some specific tests or newer adjunctive therapies might have varying coverage.
a specialized nephrology clinic in Victoria
270-4392 West Saanich Rd
Victoria, BC V8Z 3E9
Office Phone: (778) 746-6500 | Office Fax: (250) 984-2311
Dr. Harding is a licensed Nephrologist 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 or another specialist is generally required for a consultation with Dr. Harding, particularly for services covered by the Medical Services Plan (MSP).
Verify Dr. Harding's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/344810/Harding%2CMatthew