About
Dr. Roderick Marshall MacDonald is a dedicated Nephrologist, committed to providing exceptional medical care for adult patients with kidney conditions. Practicing at a specialized nephrology clinic in Victoria, BC, he is a trusted provider of comprehensive 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 quality and safety in all patient interactions. As a Nephrologist, he specializes in the diagnosis, treatment, and comprehensive management of kidney diseases, including chronic kidney disease, acute kidney injury, hypertension, and electrolyte disorders. The clinic offers a full spectrum of care, from early detection and prevention to advanced disease management, including support for patients on dialysis.
He graduated with a Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery, and Bachelor of Obstetrics (MB BCh BAO) from University College Cork School of Medicine in 2016. Following medical school, he completed a residency in Internal Medicine, followed by specialized fellowship training in Nephrology. He is a board-certified Nephrologist with over three years of specialized experience since 2021. His key certifications include Certification by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, underscoring his commitment to maintaining the highest standards of care and professional competence.
Dr. MacDonald'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 the latest therapies, he aims for optimal patient outcomes through early detection, prevention of progression, and comprehensive management of kidney-related complications. He collaborates closely with primary care physicians, dietitians, social workers, and other specialists to provide holistic care. All communication and patient care are conducted in English, ensuring clear and effective understanding for his patients in Victoria.
Dr. Roderick MacDonald provides expert diagnosis and management for a wide range of kidney conditions, including:
Acute Kidney Injury (AKI)
Dr. MacDonald addresses requires prompt diagnosis and treatment to address the underlying cause and support kidney recovery.
- Intrinsic AKI (Renal AKI): Direct damage to the kidney tissues, such as acute tubular necrosis (ATN) from toxins or ischemia, glomerulonephritis, or interstitial nephritis.
- Contrast-Induced Nephropathy: A form of AKI that can occur after exposure to iodinated contrast media used in imaging procedures.
- Post-renal AKI: Caused by an obstruction in the urinary tract (e.g., kidney stones, enlarged prostate, tumors) that prevents urine from draining.
Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)
Dr. MacDonald addresses a progressive loss of kidney function over months or years, affecting the body's ability to filter waste and maintain fluid balance.
- Diabetic Nephropathy (Kidney Disease due to Diabetes): A common complication of diabetes where high blood sugar levels damage the kidneys' filtering units.
- Advanced CKD (Stages 4-5, Non-Dialysis): Discussions about dialysis options and kidney transplantation.
- Anemia of Chronic Kidney Disease: Treated with iron supplements and/or erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESAs).
Glomerular Diseases (Glomerulonephritis)
Dr. MacDonald addresses diagnosis often requires a kidney biopsy, and treatment may involve immunosuppressive medications.
- Nephritic Syndrome: Common causes include Post-infectious Glomerulonephritis, IgA Nephropathy, and Lupus Nephritis.
- Nephrotic Syndrome: Characterized by heavy proteinuria (protein in urine), low blood albumin, edema (swelling), and high cholesterol.
- Lupus Nephritis: Kidney inflammation caused by Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE), an autoimmune disease.
This list is not exhaustive. For a comprehensive evaluation of your kidney health, a consultation with Dr. Roderick MacDonald is necessary.
- Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) Diagnosis and Management: Prompt evaluation and treatment for sudden loss of kidney function.
- Anemia and Mineral & Bone Disorder Management in CKD: Treatment of anemia associated with chronic kidney disease using iron therapy and erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESAs).
- Management of Dialysis Complications: Proactive care to improve quality of life and outcomes for dialysis patients.
- Dialysis Access Planning and Coordination: Management of dialysis access complications like infections or thrombosis.
- Hemodialysis Program Management (In-Centre and Home): Comprehensive management for patients undergoing in-centre hemodialysis.
- Medical Management of Kidney Stones (Nephrolithiasis): Collaboration with urologists for stone removal procedures when indicated.
Note: This list provides an overview. Specific treatments are determined after a thorough evaluation and consultation with Dr. MacDonald.
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. MacDonald’s primary nephrology clinic is situated in the vibrant Fairfield East, Oaklands neighborhood of Victoria, BC. The clinic is housed within a modern medical facility, designed to be accessible and comfortable for all patients. It offers a professional environment dedicated to comprehensive kidney care, with easy access to parking nearby, including some accessible spots. The clinic is conveniently located close to the iconic Fairmont Empress Hotel, making it easy to find for visitors. Patients can access the clinic via the Victoria Regional Transit System (BC Transit), ensuring accessible transportation options for everyone seeking expert kidney care in Victoria.
- What are the main types of dialysis Dr. MacDonald might discuss?
- If your kidney function declines significantly, Dr. MacDonald may discuss renal replacement therapies, primarily hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis. Hemodialysis involves filtering your blood using an external machine, usually at a dialysis center (or sometimes at home). Peritoneal dialysis uses the lining of your abdomen (peritoneum) and a special solution to filter blood inside your body, and is typically done at home. Dr. MacDonald will explain the benefits and drawbacks of each, helping you choose the best option for your lifestyle and medical condition.
- Do I need a referral to see Dr. MacDonald?
- For most consultations with Dr. MacDonald that are medically necessary and covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP), a referral from a family doctor or another specialist (like an internist or endocrinologist) is typically needed. This helps in coordinating your care effectively. In urgent situations, your referring doctor will facilitate an expedited consultation. The clinic's fax number for referrals is typically (250) 595-8503.
- What are some common kidney conditions treated by Dr. MacDonald?
- Dr. MacDonald 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.
- What is involved in the kidney transplant process with a Nephrologist like Dr. MacDonald?
- Dr. MacDonald is involved in the medical aspects of kidney transplantation. This means his role includes assessing if a transplant is a good option for you, helping manage your kidney disease before transplant, and providing ongoing medical care after the surgery. This post-transplant care is vital for the long-term success of the new kidney and involves medication management and regular check-ups.
- When should I see a Nephrologist like Dr. MacDonald?
- You should see a Nephrologist like Dr. MacDonald 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.
- How does Dr. MacDonald help manage high blood pressure (hypertension)?
- Managing high blood pressure is a key part of kidney care. Dr. MacDonald can assess complex cases of hypertension, identify if it's related to kidney problems (renal hypertension), and tailor treatment plans that may include specialized medications or adjustments to existing ones to achieve target blood pressure levels and slow down any kidney damage.
a specialized nephrology clinic in Victoria
205-1990 Fort St
Victoria, BC V8R 6V4
Office Phone: (250) 595-8811 | Office Fax: (250) 595-8503
Dr. MacDonald 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. MacDonald, particularly for services covered by the Medical Services Plan (MSP).
Verify Dr. MacDonald's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/355131/MacDonald%2CRoderick