Dr. Sandra Seo Young Kim – Urologist | Vancouver, BC

Dr. Sandra Seo Young Kim 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 Vancouver, BC, she is an integral part of the local medical community. Dr. Kim adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC), ensuring her practice maintains excellence in patient care. She provides comprehensive care for a wide range of urological issues, including kidney stones, prostate conditions, bladder problems, and male reproductive health concerns. Her practice is equipped with modern facilities to deliver thorough and effective urological care to adult male and female patients.

She earned her medical degree (MD) from the University of British Columbia in Canada and holds specialty certification as a Urologist. Dr. Kim has obtained key certifications including those from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, affirming her expertise and commitment to her subspecialty in urology.

Dr. Kim's clinical philosophy centers on patient-centered care, utilizing advanced and minimally invasive techniques whenever appropriate, grounded in evidence-based practice. She is dedicated to providing personalized, compassionate care to her patients in Vancouver, conducting all consultations in English, and ensuring patients are well-informed about their health and treatment options.

Dr. Sandra Kim addresses a wide range of urological conditions, including:

Female Pelvic Health & Urinary Conditions

• Urethral Syndrome / Chronic Urethritis: Symptoms of urethral irritation or inflammation without evidence of bacterial infection.
• Stress Urinary Incontinence (SUI): Involuntary leakage of urine during physical activity like coughing, sneezing, laughing, or exercise.
• Recurrent Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) in Women: Frequent bladder or kidney infections requiring investigation and management.

General Urologic Symptoms & Disorders

• Urinary Frequency, Urgency & Nocturia: Symptoms of needing to urinate often, suddenly, or frequently during the night, which can indicate various underlying conditions.
• Neurogenic Bladder: Bladder dysfunction caused by neurological damage or conditions affecting nerve control of the bladder.
• Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) - Recurrent or Complicated: Infections affecting any part of the urinary system that are frequent, persistent, or associated with underlying factors.

Prostate & Male Genital Conditions

• Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) / Enlarged Prostate: Non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland, common in aging men, causing urinary symptoms.
• Erectile Dysfunction (ED): The inability to get or keep an erection firm enough for sexual intercourse.
• Male Infertility Factors (e.g., Varicocele, Obstructive Azoospermia): Urological conditions contributing to a couple's inability to conceive.

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

• Adrenal Tumor Urological Evaluation & Surgical Management: Assessing and surgically removing adrenal masses when indicated from a urological perspective.
• Penile & Urethral Cancer Management: Diagnosis and treatment strategies for less common urogenital cancers.
• Erectile Dysfunction (ED) Diagnosis & Treatment: Comprehensive evaluation and management of ED, including oral medications, injection therapy, vacuum devices, and penile prosthesis surgery.
• Prostate Biopsy (TRUS-guided): Transrectal ultrasound-guided biopsy to obtain prostate tissue samples for cancer diagnosis.
• Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL): Surgical procedure to remove large or complex kidney stones directly from the kidney through a small incision in the back.
• Prostate Cancer Diagnosis, Staging & Multimodal Management: Including active surveillance, radical prostatectomy (open, laparoscopic, robotic), radiation therapy coordination, and hormone therapy.
• Prostatitis Management (Acute & Chronic): Diagnosis and treatment of prostate inflammation and infection.

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

Located within a urology clinic in Vancouver's Fairview neighbourhood, Dr. Kim's practice is situated in a modern facility close to Riley Park (Nat Bailey Stadium). Easily accessible via public transit, including TransLink's SkyTrain Expo, Millennium, and Canada Lines, as well as bus, SeaBus, and West Coast Express (Waterfront). The facility is wheelchair accessible, ensuring ease of access for all patients. Metered street parking and nearby parking lots are available for those arriving by car, offering convenience for patients attending appointments.

Are consultations and treatments with Dr. Kim, a Urologist, covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC?

Medically necessary consultations with a licensed Urologist like Dr. Kim, as well as most diagnostic tests (e.g., cystoscopy, urodynamics) and provincially insured surgical procedures, are generally covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC 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. Kim's office or Medical Services Plan (MSP).

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

Yes, for most urological consultations and treatments covered by provincial health plans in BC, a referral from your family physician or another specialist is typically required to see a Urologist like Dr. Kim. 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 is a cystoscopy and why might I need one?

A cystoscopy is a procedure that allows your urologist, such as Dr. Dr. Kim, to look directly inside your bladder and urethra using a thin, lighted instrument called a cystoscope. It might be recommended to investigate symptoms like blood in the urine, frequent UTIs, bladder pain, or difficulty urinating. It can also be used to take biopsies or perform minor treatments. She will explain the procedure and any preparation needed.

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. Kim can discuss the most suitable options for you based on your individual circumstances.

What is a PSA test and who should have it?

The PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) test is a blood test primarily used to screen for prostate cancer. PSA is a protein produced by cells of the prostate gland. The decision to have a PSA test is best made in consultation with your doctor, like Dr. Dr. Kim, after discussing the potential benefits, risks, and limitations of screening. Factors such as age, family history of prostate cancer, and ethnicity are often considered. It's not a perfect test, as elevated PSA can also be caused by non-cancerous conditions like BPH or prostatitis.

What does a Urologist like Dr. Kim specialize in?

A Urologist is a medical doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating conditions of the urinary tract in both males and females, as well as conditions of the male reproductive system. This includes organs like the kidneys, adrenal glands, ureters, urinary bladder, urethra, and the male reproductive organs (testes, epididymis, vas deferens, seminal vesicles, prostate, and penis). She is a Urologist specializing in conditions of the urinary tract and male reproductive system. Dr. Kim provides comprehensive care for a wide range of these conditions.

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. Dr. Kim can help determine the cause and best treatment plan for you.

6-2775 Laurel St, Level, Department of Urologic Sciences
Vancouver, BC V5Z 1M9

Phone: (604) 875-4301 | Fax: (604) 875-4637

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Kim is a licensed Urologist 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 is typically required for consultations with Dr. Kim for services covered by the provincial health plan.

Verify registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/345298/Kim%2CSandra%20Seo