Jim C. Hu, M.D., M.P.H.

Dr. Jim Hu is a urologic oncologist with his undergraduate degree in Economics, his Master’s in Public Health in HealtPolicy and Management from Johns Hopkins University, and his Medical Degree from Baylor College of Medicine. He completed his Urology Residency at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA and his Robotic Surgery/Urologic Oncology Fellowship in 2004 at City of Hope National Medical Center.

He began his career as the Director of Robotic and Minimally Invasive Surgery at Brigham and Women's Hospital and Instructor at Harvard Medical School and was quickly promoted to Director of the Prostate Cancer Program at Dana Farber/Harvard Cancer Center and Associate Professor. He was then recruited back to the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA as the Henry Singleton Chair of Robotic and Minimally Invasive Surgery, where he led the minimally invasive prostate cancer, kidney cancer, and kidney donor nephrectomy programs. He was promoted to Professor before joining the faculty at Weill Cornell Medical College in 2015 as the Director of the LeFrak Center for Robotic Surgery and the Ronald P. Lynch Chair in Urologic Oncology. He currently serves as the Vice-Chair of Clinical Research, Chair of Quality and Patient Safety, and the Course Director for Urology Grand Rounds.

Dr. Hu is an internationally renowned surgical innovator and health services researcher. His comparative effectiveness research interests have been funded by the Department of Defense, the National Cancer Institute, and the Livestrong Foundation. He is currently the contact principal investigator on two National Cancer Institute R0-1 randomized clinical trials investigating novel, potentially practice-changing approaches to prostate biopsy and radical prostatectomy. He is also the contact principal investigator on two Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI) awards investigating prostate biopsy and comparative effectiveness of focal therapy, stereotactic body radiation therapy vs. conventional prostate cancer therapies. He has been awarded more than $12 million in peer-reviewed funding, and he has authored more than 300 peer-reviewed papers. His discoveries have been published in the most prestigious and exclusive medical journals, such as the New England Journal of Medicine, the Journal of the American Medical Association, and the Journal of Clinical Oncology, as well as featured in the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and Boston Globe. In addition, Dr. Hu has published the most advances/videos of technical modifications internationally in European Urology Surgery in Motion to improve prostate and kidney cancer surgical outcomes. Dr. Hu has performed over 4000 laparoscopic, robotic and open procedures.

Testimonials

"I can honestly say this man gave me a new lease on life. He and his Robot and crew snagged this gross death sentence out of my left side. His staff were accommodating,understanding kind and personal. I will be forever grateful. Thank yo thank you very much." - Nov. 13, 2023

"When my dad got diagnosed with high-grade prostate cancer, I was on a mission to find the best surgeon for a robotic prostatectomy. Dr. Hu’s credentials speak for themselves; he has dedicated his career to this disease and improving the robotic surgical procedure and he is internationally recognized for his work. As a physician and surgeon myself, however, I knew how important it was to find a surgeon who was not just knowledgeable about the topic, but one who had “good hands.” I wanted to know that whoever we chose was going to be a truly excellent surgeon with sound clinical judgement given the nuances of any surgery. As physicians, my husband and I were fortunate to be able to leverage some connections in order to get the insider scoop, and Dr. Hu was a unanimous recommendation from multiple colleagues throughout the country and even his own trainees. This gave us the utmost confidence in choosing him as our surgeon. My dad recently underwent surgery and we have been extremely pleased with the results. Dr. Hu was able to obtain negative surgical margins despite the tumor being more advanced than anticipated. Within a week, my dad reported being “back to normal” with minimal to no side effects, which is truly remarkable, and Dr. Hu has been diligent in his follow up. We are incredibly grateful for his care and would recommend him to anyone looking for a true expert in robotic prostatectomy." - Nov. 12, 2023

"During my original consultation with Dr Hu I found him knowledgeable, sympathetic, and an excellent listener/communicator. I'm now three months out of surgery and can say Dr Hu is a very skilled surgeon and recovery went very well. I opted to go home the same day  as my robotic surgery -   I never had any incontinence issues and ED issues evaporated about three-four weeks after surgery. Dr. Hu's team of nurses and office staff are just as professional and skilled. As is the entire Weill Cornell New York Presbyterian Hospital. Just yesterday I found out my PSA is undetectable and could not be more pleased my extensive research (and word of mouth from a trusted neighbor) led me to Dr. Hu." - May 19, 2023

"Thanks to Dr. Hu, nine months after my prostatectomy I am cancer-free, have had no problems with incontinence, am fully active physically, and can attain a full erection. I was 62 (165 lbs, 5'10") at the time of my surgery. My prostate cancer was Stage 3, Gleason 4+3=7. After surgery Dr. Hu informed me that all margins were negative for cancer, and my nerves around the prostate were spared. I went home from surgery at NY Presbyterian the same day. The Foley catheter was removed ten days later. I have had no problems at all with incontinence. (I practiced Kegels before surgery, and continue to do so 2 times a day.) Sexual function began to return a month after surgery. Following the advice to "use it or lose it" I took regular action (stimulation, exercise, Tadalafil, conjugal sex) to rehabilitate erectile function. Now I can attain a full/near-full erection most days, w/ or w/out Tadalafil. My PSA is now below 0.02. Dr. Hu is a great surgeon, compassionate and encouraging. The best!" - Oct 04, 2022

"Dr. Jim Hu talked me through my initial biopsy, explaining the procedure and what I would be experiencing, which alleviated any anxiety. Cancer-care nurses in Boston and NYC rated him as being tops in this field, so I chose to go with him. My surgery was smooth, I had less pain than anticipated (really not much), and no complications other than the usual post-prostate-removal issues. Staff is also responsive, and the offices are attractive and inviting." – February 2022

"Dr. Hu’s robotic techniques are as good as advertised. Post-surgery my urinary incontinence was minimal and now is not a concern at all. Also, he treats everyone (patients, nurses, assistants) in a respectful manner. He is calm, patient and friendly. If you are considering surgery, I highly recommend him." – January 2022 

"I was impressed with Dr. Hu from our first meeting. I had talked to other surgeons and was very disgusted. I was being talked to like being part of a cookie cutter operation. Dr. Hu treated me like as an individual and discussed my situation as it was relevant to me. His background and experience made my choice simple. I scheduled my surgery. His team is extremely professional and understanding. When I'd ask a question, I received an answer the same day or early the next. Quite impressive considering most doctors either never get back to you or take their time. I highly recommend Dr. Hu and his staff." – January 2022 

"Dr. Hu removed my prostate two weeks ago. I went home the same day, and recovery has been speedy. The advice and guidance received from Dr. Hu and his team both before and after surgery has been comprehensive and reassuring. His personal manner is warm and encouraging. Thanks to Dr. Hu’s skill as a surgeon, all margins were negative for cancer and the nerves were spared. I would not have wanted to be operated on by anyone else." – January 2022.

"In April of this year I discovered, quite suddenly, that I had a very large mass on my left kidney. I had no symptoms of this until one day I felt increasing pain in my left flank and discovered blood in my urine. My primary care physician, after ordering another CT scan, referred me to Dr. Hu who met with me immediately to go over the findings and schedule the surgery. Dr. Hu was direct, calm, informative, caring, and supportive. Within a week and a half of our meeting I was in surgery. The surgery was extensive because of the size of the tumor. Dr. Hu and his team did a magnificent job getting me through surgery and setting me on the road to recovery! I just saw him for the six-month check in and the surgery scar has healed very well with no complications. If you have any need for surgery, know that you are in great hands with Dr. Hu. I'm so grateful to have had him journey with me.” – November 2021 

"My father was diagnosed with prostate cancer in late 2019. We interviewed at least three doctors who were rated highly. When my father met Dr. Hu, he was immediately put at ease and was impressed with the number of successful surgeries he carried out, the knowledge Dr. Hu shared during our initial conversation, and his professional manner throughout the entire process. To put it simply, this type of surgery is not the easiest for the typical man to feel comfortable with. However, with Dr. Hu, my father felt confident and well-informed. Fast forward to 2021: my father has experienced minimal side effects and his recent hospital visits and bloodwork have shown that the high levels indicating the cancer displayed pre-surgery are no longer present. My entire family and my father are extremely grateful for Dr. Hu. We'd highly recommend him without hesitation to anyone who's looking for the best in this field." – October 2021

"Dr. Hu and his team were fantastic right from our first meeting to post surgery care. I had already seen a urologist and was fortunate enough to have been put in touch with Dr. Hu by a friend after y initial consultation post diagnosis. He explained everything in a way that made perfect sense to me and I did not get the feeling I was on the receiving end of a sales pitch. It was recommended I get a prostatectomy and we moved forward with that. From the initial meeting to main surgery took around 4 weeks. The surgery was a success and post care appointments have all been good. Scaring and some effects have been minimal and I feel fantastic 11 weeks out. 
In summary Dr. Hu and the team supporting him have to be some of the best practitioners in this field globally. I can't praise them highly enough. Thanks!" – September 2021 

"Doctor Jim Hu is a compassionate caring surgeon who is a technical expert and leader in the field of Prostate Cancer. He spent significant amount of time with my wife and myself educating us regarding my diagnose and treatment so that I could make an informed decision. The Robotic surgery involved an overnight stay in the Hospital. I was up on my feet the day of the surgery and walked several miles the day after surgery. Dr Hu continues to be incredible responsive three years after my surgery.
The diagnosis of prostate cancer was shocking, but it was just a blip. Thanks to the treatment and care of Doctor Hu. I have resumed an active lifestyle competing in Marathons and Triathlons." - August 2021 

"Had a radical robotic prostatectomy 3 months ago. I would strongly recommend Dr Hu to anyone considering a similar procedure, for a number of reasons. 1 Dr Hu does a lot of these ops and it showed. He was very clear about the process, very responsive to myriad questions, and set accurate expectations. 2 Surgery was a breeze - slept through it in fact! - and I did not end up needing to stay in hospital overnight. While it's less fun afterwards, given the nature of the procedure, my recovery has been good and event free. 3 His follow up has been diligent, and he has been very responsive - whether email, text or phone - as we've periodically updated my post-op progress. 4 Dr Hu welcomed my wife's involvement and she participated in all the meetings and calls. Her having confidence was very important to us. 5 While outcomes surely color patient assessments, the medical professionals I consulted were unanimous in recommending Dr Hu." – July 2021 

"I am a physician who was diagnosed with prostate cancer 2 years ago and a medical school classmate of mine in NYC insisted I see Dr Hu. I live in the Midwest but made the trip, received treatment and periodically follow up with him; completing my 1.5 year follow-up biopsy with him today.
I’m struck by Dr Hu’s personable nature, competence and professionalism. As a physician, trust is everything; if I didn’t feel the trips to NY to see Dr Hu were worth the time and expense, I wouldn’t be continuing to come here to see him. I would not even consider seeing another urologist.
I don’t want someone right out of training, nor do I want someone in private practice who isn’t personally experienced in all the different current treatment options. I know Dr. Hu has the expertise and skills I am seeking. And even though I am in another state, I have encouraged my patients to consider taking the trip to NYC as well for their cancer treatment.
When I can honestly say I’d recommend him to my family, that speaks volumes; that is the best compliment I can give Dr Hu." – July 2021 

"I was diagnosed with prostate cancer and was referred to Dr. Hu. - Thankfully! Dr. Hu was wonderful to deal with, explained all of the treatment options for me to consider, performed the requisite tests to see if the cancer had spread and helped me come to a treatment decision. He performed the robotic surgery about 2 years ago and has been monitoring my progress on a regular basis. Dr. Hu is a talented surgeon, which is particularly significant for nerve sparing and continence preservation and has performed thousands of these surgeries to understand the delicate nature of the anatomy that is being disturbed. I highly recommend Dr. Hu when you need a knowledgeable surgeon that has follow through and can help you understand whatever options you are considering in these situations." – June 2021 

Dr. Hu offers the HIFU (High Intensity Focused Ultrasound) Procedure. Learn More Here.

Learn more here about Dr. Hu's modifications and refinements of robotic surgery tehnique.

Please call Dr. Hu's office at (646) 962-9600 if you would like to make an appointment or have any questions.