Urologist Guide: How to Choose One and What to Look For
Istanbul is the city with the strongest healthcare infrastructure in Turkey. With dozens of urologists available through private hospitals, university clinics, and private practices, choosing the right specialist in Istanbul can sometimes be confusing. In this guide, we cover the criteria to consider when choosing a urologist, the appointment process, and frequently asked questions.
Who Is a Urologist and What Do They Do?
Urology is a surgical branch of medicine encompassing the male and female urogenital system (kidneys, ureters, bladder, urethra) and the male reproductive organs (testes, epididymis, prostate, penis).
The main problems men see a urologist for:
| Problem | Urology Subspecialty |
|---|---|
| Prostate enlargement (BPH) | Functional urology |
| Prostate cancer | Uro-oncology |
| Kidney and ureter stones | Endourology |
| Erectile dysfunction | Andrology |
| Premature ejaculation | Andrology |
| Male infertility | Andrology |
| Bladder cancer | Uro-oncology |
| Kidney mass | Uro-oncology |
| Testicular mass | Uro-oncology |
| Urinary incontinence | Neurourology |
Where Can Urology Services Be Obtained in Istanbul?
Public/University Hospitals
- Istanbul University-Cerrahpaşa Faculty of Medicine Department of Urology
- Istanbul Faculty of Medicine Department of Urology
- Marmara University Pendik Training and Research Hospital
- Şişli Hamidiye Etfal Training and Research Hospital
- Kartal Training and Research Hospital
Advantage: Experienced academics, advanced technology, social security coverage Disadvantage: Long wait times, heavy patient load
Private Hospitals
In Istanbul, major private hospital chains such as Memorial, Acıbadem, Florence Nightingale, Medicana, and Dünya Göz house strong urology departments.
Advantage: Fast appointments, comfort, state-of-the-art equipment Disadvantage: High cost; limited social security contribution
Private Practices and Clinics
Men’s health-focused private clinics are particularly concentrated in central districts of Istanbul such as Şişli, Kadıköy, Beşiktaş, Nişantaşı, and Bağcılar.
Advantage: Specialist-focused, ease of appointment, emphasis on privacy Disadvantage: Variable infrastructure; requires verification
Things to Consider When Choosing a Urologist
1. Verifying Specialist Credentials
- In Turkey, urologists can be queried through the Ministry of Health’s Health Specialist Certification System (SUB)
- For the title of “andrology specialist,” membership in the Turkish Urology Association (TUD) or Turkish Andrology Association (TAD) can be used as a reference
2. Subspecialty Area
Not all urologists have equal experience in all areas. Match your problem to the following criteria:
| Problem | Which Subspecialist |
|---|---|
| Prostate cancer, bladder cancer | Uro-oncologist |
| Kidney stones, ureter stones | Endourology specialist |
| ED, PE, infertility | Andrologist |
| Bladder control, neurourology | Neurourology specialist |
| Robotic/laparoscopic surgery | Robotic urology specialist |
3. Technology and Equipment
Expected in a quality urology clinic in Istanbul:
- Uroflowmetry device (urine flow rate measurement)
- Transrectal ultrasonography (TRUS)
- Doppler ultrasonography (penile vascular assessment)
- Cystoscopy (intravesical imaging)
- ESWT device (shock wave therapy)
- Laser lithotriptor (kidney/bladder stone breaking)
- Robotic surgery system (at major centers)
4. Experience and Case Volume
Especially in situations requiring surgery (prostatectomy, varicocelectomy, prosthesis implantation), annual case volume is critically important. Do not hesitate to ask the hospital or physician directly.
5. Communication Quality
A good urologist:
- Takes sufficient time to answer your questions
- Explains treatment options in terms of advantages and disadvantages
- Also presents non-medication options
- Works in coordination with other specialists when necessary
Preparing for a Urology Appointment
Before going to your appointment:
- List your current medications and dosages
- Chronic diseases (diabetes, hypertension, heart)
- Previous tests if any: PSA, semen analysis, imaging reports
- Duration and progression of your complaints
- URINARY SYMPTOM QUESTIONS: Number of nighttime wake-ups, urine flow strength, feeling of incomplete emptying
- SEXUAL QUESTIONS: How long has it been occurring, under what conditions is it better/worse
Price Guide for Urology Tests (2026, Istanbul)
| Test | Public Hospital (Social Security) | Private Hospital |
|---|---|---|
| PSA test | Free (Social Security) | ₺200–400 |
| Uroflowmetry | Social Security | ₺400–800 |
| Transrectal ultrasound | Social Security | ₺600–1,200 |
| Penile Doppler ultrasound | Limited Social Security | ₺1,000–2,000 |
| Semen analysis | Limited Social Security | ₺400–800 |
| Cystoscopy | Social Security | ₺1,500–3,000 |
| ESWT (per session) | Not covered | ₺2,000–4,000 |
Prices may vary significantly by institution and physician.
Urology Services Under Social Security (SGK)
Social security covers many urology tests and treatments with primary care referral:
- Kidney stone treatment (ESWL, ureteroscopy)
- Prostate enlargement surgery (TURP)
- Prostate cancer surgery
- Bladder cancer surgery
Main services not covered by social security:
- ESWT (shock wave therapy for ED)
- P-Shot / PRP
- Stem cell / SVF treatments
- Cosmetic penile aesthetic procedures
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you make a urology appointment in Istanbul? Appointments at public/university hospitals can be made through MHRS (Central Physician Appointment System); private hospitals have their own systems or call centers.
Can I see a urologist without a referral? Yes for private hospitals. A family doctor referral makes it easier for public and university hospitals; some specialties are also open to direct appointments.
Urologist or andrologist? For sexual and reproductive health problems, see a urologist first; for complex cases or infertility, see an andrologist. Most major urology departments in Istanbul also have an andrologist on staff.
Can you see a female urologist for penis-related problems? Yes. Urology specialization is not gender-dependent; both male and female urologists can treat male sexual health problems.
How much do specialist fees cost? As of 2026, private urology consultation fees in Istanbul range from approximately ₺800 to ₺2,500. For patients with social security, co-payment varies by institution.
Related Articles
- What Is an Andrologist? →
- How to Choose a Men’s Health Clinic? →
- What Is a PSA Test and When Should You Get One? →
- Symptoms of Prostate Enlargement →
Important Note: This content is for general informational purposes only. It does not constitute a recommendation for a specific clinic or physician. Use Ministry of Health and professional organization resources for physician selection.