Urologic Cancer Program
When you’re facing prostate, bladder, kidney, or testicular cancer, you deserve expert care that’s as advanced as it is compassionate. At the Providence Swedish Cancer Institute, we offer leading-edge treatments — from minimally invasive surgeries to groundbreaking radiation therapies — delivered by some of the most experienced urologic cancer specialists in the region.
Expert Cancer Care
At the Providence Swedish Cancer Institute, we understand the complexity of urologic cancers and the need for highly focused care. That’s why your treatment team includes expert urologists, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists working together to create a personalized plan tailored to your needs.
We offer a full range of leading-edge therapies, including robotic and laparoscopic surgery, brachytherapy, CyberKnife radiosurgery, and radiopharmaceuticals such as Pluvicto. Our specialists have decades of experience treating prostate, bladder, kidney, and testicular cancers, and have pioneered advanced, minimally invasive techniques — like creating artificial bladders from intestinal tissue to help patients urinate more naturally after bladder cancer surgery.
But exceptional care isn’t just about technology — it’s about treating you as a whole person. From your first appointment through survivorship, our team provides a range of supportive services to care for your mind and body.
Urologic Cancer Conditions We Treat
We provide comprehensive care for urologic cancers and related conditions, including early-stage, invasive, and high-risk cases. This includes:
- Bladder Cancer
- Kidney (Renal) Cancer
- Prostate Cancer
- Testicular Cancer
- Urologic Cancer
Meet Our Urologic Cancer Team
At the Providence Swedish Cancer Institute, you’ll be cared for by a tightly connected group of urologic cancer experts who work collaboratively to develop a personalized approach to treatment, prevention, and long-term wellness.
Testing & Diagnostics
Our urologic cancer specialists use advanced testing and diagnostic tools to accurately identify the type, stage, and unique characteristics of your urologic cancer.
We also offer screenings and genetic testing to promote awareness and early detection of cancer.
A biopsy involves taking a small tissue sample to determine whether cancer cells are present. It’s a common and reliable diagnostic method used to determine the presence of cancer cells. Fine needle aspiration (FNA) is used to remove a small sample of tissue or fluid. A core needle biopsy removes a slightly larger tissue sample, and a surgical biopsy may be needed if a larger sample is necessary for an accurate diagnosis.
Genetic and genomic testing analyzes your DNA and the genetic makeup of your tumor to identify what may be causing your cancer. These insights help your care team tailor treatments specifically to your cancer’s unique profile, potentially improving outcomes and offering targeted therapy options.
MRI uses radio frequency waves and a strong magnetic field rather than x-rays to provide remarkably clear and detailed pictures of internal organs and tissues. Our MRI machines are specially designed to be less claustrophobic for patients.
Prostate cancer screening typically includes a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test and a digital rectal exam (DRE) to detect early signs of cancer. Early detection through regular screening can significantly improve treatment success and long-term outcomes, especially for those at higher risk.
The PSMA PET/CT scan is an advanced imaging technique that targets PSMA, a protein found in prostate cancer cells. This highly sensitive scan can detect if prostate cancer has spread more accurately than traditional imaging, helping your care team create a precise and personalized treatment plan.
Advanced Treatments for Urologic Cancers
The most effective treatment plan is one personalized for you and targeted to the unique characteristics of your tumor. Depending on your condition, you may receive one or more of the following treatments:
Available Options for Clinical Trials and Research
We're committed to furthering cancer research because we're committed to finding you the best treatment. Your care team will proactively tell you about any of the ongoing clinical trials that might be a fit for your treatment plan.
Awards & Accreditations
The Providence Swedish Cancer Institute is nationally recognized for excellence in cancer care, research, and patient outcomes. Our dedication to advancing cancer treatment has earned accreditations and distinctions from some of the most respected institutions in the country.
American College of Radiology (ACR) - Diagnostic Imaging Center of Excellence
American College of Surgeons (ACS) - Commission on Cancer Accredited Program
American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO) - Accreditation Program for Excellence (APEx)
Patient Resources & Support
Frequently Asked Questions
You receive care from a dedicated team of board-certified medical and radiation oncologists, surgeons, urologists, and specialized nurses, all with expertise in urologic cancer.
Our multidisciplinary team also includes oncology nurses, pharmacists, physical therapists, and other cancer experts who support you throughout your care. Your physicians work closely together — participating in cross-departmental tumor boards with other Providence Swedish specialists — to create a treatment plan tailored to you. Although your care is team-based, you’ll continue to have regular appointments with your lead physician, who stays closely involved and helps coordinate your treatment every step of the way.
Your treatment is unique to your diagnosis and needs. It may involve surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, or targeted therapies, in addition to ongoing supportive care services.
Your team walks you through each step, helping you manage side effects and access resources like nutrition counseling, social services, and survivorship programs. Our goal is always to ensure you feel supported throughout your care.
Learn more details about all the available treatments for urologic cancer and what to expect during your treatment.
We provide a full range of supportive care services to support you during and after your cancer treatment. Some of these services include:
- Art therapists
- Cancer rehabilitation (onco-physiatry)
- Care coordinators
- Genetic counseling (cancer geneticist)
- Health educators
- Medical massage (edema, lymphedema management)
- Music therapist
- Naturopaths
- Nutritionists
- Oncology nurses
- Social workers
- Speech and language pathology
We can also help with finances, food, transportation, and other challenges for eligible patients through our patient assistance fund.
See the full list of supportive care services.
Note: Some services are provided by local partners and vary based on location. Please contact your clinic for more information.
Patients have access to hundreds of clinical trials involving most cancer types. We are often among the first in the U.S. to provide access to Phase 1 trials — the first stage of evaluating treatments in humans. Please note, we open new trials often. Check with your clinician for the latest in upcoming trials.
Learn more and find out if a clinical trial could become part of your treatment plan.
If you're feeling unsure about your pathology report – which explains details like the type, size, and stage of your cancer based on lab results – our team is here to help.
We will walk you through the report, answering questions so that you feel informed and confident about your diagnosis and treatment options.
Getting a second opinion can help you feel more confident in your diagnosis and treatment plan. If you’ve already been diagnosed somewhere else, we’re here to help you take the next step. Call 855-XCANCER, 855-922-6237 - our care coordinators will match you with the right cancer specialist and help schedule your visit. They can also work with your current physician to collect your medical records and test results.
Our goal is to help you understand the insurance and billing process.
We have financial counselors on staff to help you sort out any insurance issues. These counselors work with your insurance company to verify benefits and coordinate pre-certification or pre-authorization of care if necessary. Then, they coordinate all this information with the medical center’s billing services.
We also have oncology social workers who can help you with:
- Benefits advocacy, if you are eligible
- Financial counseling
- Medicaid applications
- Medicare and coordinating Medigap and prescription plans
Our mission is to improve the health and well-being of each person we serve. A crucial part of fulfilling this mission is our financial assistance program.
This program offers free or discounted services for those who cannot afford care, are underinsured, or have no insurance at all. We provide financial assistance in cases where annual family income is between zero and 400 percent of the federal poverty level, helping ensure that financial constraints aren’t a barrier to receiving medically necessary care.
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