About
Dr. Robert Andrew Humphreys is a dedicated Nephrologist, committed to providing exceptional medical care for adult patients with kidney conditions. Practicing at a specialized nephrology clinic in Vancouver in Vancouver, 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), ensuring comprehensive and safe treatment for all patients. Dr. Humphreys's role focuses on the diagnosis, treatment, and comprehensive management of kidney diseases, including chronic kidney disease, acute kidney injury, hypertension, and electrolyte disorders. The clinic offers a welcoming environment for patients, providing 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 Memorial University of Newfoundland in 2002. Following medical school, he completed a residency in Internal Medicine, then pursued specialized fellowship training in Nephrology. He is a board-certified Nephrologist with over 17 years of specialized experience since 2007. Dr. Humphreys holds key certifications including Certification by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, demonstrating his commitment to maintaining the highest standards of medical practice and ongoing professional development.
Dr. Humphreys’s professional philosophy emphasizes 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 and empowering them in shared decision-making. Utilizing evidence-based medicine and advanced therapies, he strives for optimal patient outcomes. His approach focuses on early detection, prevention of disease progression, and comprehensive management of kidney-related complications. He collaborates closely with primary care physicians, dietitians, social workers, and other specialists to ensure holistic patient care. All communication and patient care are provided in English, with a compassionate and precise approach tailored to each individual.
Dr. Robert Humphreys provides expert diagnosis and management for a wide range of kidney conditions, including:
Glomerular Diseases (Glomerulonephritis)
Dr. Humphreys addresses disorders that affect the glomeruli, the tiny filtering units within the kidneys, often leading to proteinuria, hematuria, and impaired kidney function.
- Lupus Nephritis: Kidney inflammation caused by Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE), an autoimmune disease.
- IgA Nephropathy (Berger's Disease): Often presents with visible blood in urine during or after an infection.
- Nephrotic Syndrome: Common causes include Minimal Change Disease, Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis (FSGS), and Membranous Nephropathy.
Acute Kidney Injury (AKI)
Dr. Humphreys addresses a sudden episode of kidney failure or kidney damage that happens within a few hours or a few days.
- Intrinsic AKI (Renal AKI): Kidney biopsy may be needed for diagnosis in some cases.
- Contrast-Induced Nephropathy: Risk factors include pre-existing CKD, diabetes, and dehydration.
- Post-renal AKI: Treatment involves relieving the obstruction to allow normal urine flow.
Hypertension and Electrolyte Disorders
Dr. Humphreys addresses management of high blood pressure, especially when it's difficult to control or related to kidney disease, and disorders of body salts and minerals.
- Disorders of Sodium and Water Balance (Hyponatremia, Hypernatremia): Requires careful diagnosis of the cause and precise management of fluid and electrolyte intake.
- Resistant Hypertension: High blood pressure that remains above goal despite treatment with three or more antihypertensive medications of different classes, including a diuretic.
- Acid-Base Disorders (Acidosis, Alkalosis): Kidneys play a key role in regulating acid-base balance. Disorders can be respiratory or metabolic.
This list is not exhaustive. For a comprehensive evaluation of your kidney health, a consultation with Dr. Robert Humphreys is necessary.
- Hemodialysis Program Management (In-Centre and Home): Regular monitoring of dialysis adequacy, nutritional status, and management of related complications.
- Glomerular Disease (Glomerulonephritis) Diagnosis and Treatment: Evaluation and management of various glomerular diseases like IgA nephropathy, FSGS, lupus nephritis, and membranous nephropathy.
- Hypertension (High Blood Pressure) Management related to Kidney Disease: Lifestyle modification advice to support blood pressure control.
- Peritoneal Dialysis Program Management (CAPD/APD): Includes patient training, ongoing monitoring, and management of peritoneal dialysis-related issues.
- Management of Dialysis Complications: Nutritional counseling and psychosocial support coordination.
- Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) Diagnosis and Management: In-hospital and outpatient follow-up for AKI.
Note: This list provides an overview. Specific treatments are determined after a thorough evaluation and consultation with Dr. Humphreys.
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. Humphreys practices at a specialized nephrology clinic situated in Vancouver's vibrant Shaughnessy and Arbutus Ridge South neighborhoods. The clinic is conveniently located near Riley Park, including Nat Bailey Stadium, and is accessible via TransLink's SkyTrain Expo, Millennium, and Canada Lines, as well as Bus, SeaBus, and West Coast Express (Waterfront). The facility is designed to be accessible and comfortable for all patients, offering a professional environment for comprehensive kidney care. Parking is typically available nearby, with some accessible spots to accommodate all patients. The clinic provides a welcoming setting for patients seeking expert nephrology services in Vancouver.
- What are some common kidney conditions treated by Dr. Humphreys?
- Dr. Humphreys treats a wide range of kidney-related conditions. Common ones include Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) from various causes (like diabetes and hypertension), Acute Kidney Injury (AKI), Glomerulonephritis (inflammation of kidney filters), Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD), electrolyte and acid-base disorders, and complications requiring dialysis or kidney transplantation. specializing in the diagnosis, treatment, and comprehensive management of kidney diseases, including chronic kidney disease, acute kidney injury, hypertension, and electrolyte disorders.
- How does Dr. Humphreys help manage high blood pressure (hypertension)?
- Dr. Humphreys, as a Nephrologist, has expertise in managing hypertension, especially if it's severe, resistant to standard treatments, or caused by kidney disease. He can investigate underlying causes, optimize medication regimens, and provide guidance on lifestyle changes to effectively control blood pressure, which is crucial for protecting kidney health and overall cardiovascular well-being.
- When should I see a Nephrologist like Dr. Humphreys?
- You should see a Nephrologist like Dr. Humphreys if you have been diagnosed with kidney disease, have significant risk factors (like diabetes or uncontrolled hypertension with signs of kidney impact), or experience symptoms such as persistent swelling, changes in urination, blood or protein in urine, or unexplained fatigue that your family doctor suspects is kidney-related. A referral from your primary care physician or another specialist is typically required.
- What does a Nephrologist like Dr. Humphreys specialize in?
- Dr. Humphreys 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 are the main types of dialysis Dr. Humphreys might discuss?
- Dr. Humphreys can explain various dialysis options if needed. The two main types are hemodialysis, where blood is cleaned outside the body by a machine, and peritoneal dialysis, where a solution is put into your abdomen to clean the blood internally. Both have different schedules and requirements, and Dr. Humphreys would help determine suitability based on individual patient needs.
- Are services from Dr. Humphreys covered by provincial health insurance?
- Most specialized medical care for kidney diseases provided by Dr. Humphreys is covered under Medical Services Plan (MSP). This includes appointments, prescribed kidney function tests, management of dialysis, and care before and after a kidney transplant. 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. Humphreys'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 Vancouver
K4-153, ACB, 4480 Oak St, Division of Pediatric Nephrology, BC Children's Hospital
Vancouver, BC V6H 3V4
Office Phone: (604) 875-2272 | Office Fax: (604) 875-3649
Dr. Humphreys 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. Humphreys, particularly for services covered by the Medical Services Plan (MSP).
Verify Dr. Humphreys's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/328288/Humphreys%2CRobert