About
Dr. David Scott Hatcher is a dedicated Anesthesiologist focused on providing safe and effective anesthesia care for surgical and medical procedures. Practicing primarily at medical facilities in Owen Sound, ON, he contributes to the surgical and procedural teams. Dr. Hatcher adheres to the standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), ensuring high-quality, professional care. His role involves delivering comprehensive care in the field of Anesthesiology, prioritizing patient safety and comfort throughout all stages of anesthesia management.
He graduated with a Medical Degree from the Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry in 1993. Dr. Hatcher has been practicing as a specialist in Anesthesiology for over 26 years, since 1998. He is certified by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, demonstrating his expertise and commitment to maintaining the highest standards in his specialty.
Dr. Hatcher’s clinical philosophy emphasizes professionalism, precision, and patient-centered care. He is committed to ensuring the safety and comfort of his patients in Owen Sound, working closely with surgical teams to optimize perioperative outcomes. He communicates fluently in English, facilitating clear and compassionate interactions with his patients and colleagues alike.
- Pre-Anesthetic Assessment and Consultation: Thorough evaluation of patient health, medical history, medications, and surgical/procedural plan to create the safest and most effective anesthesia plan.
- General Anesthesia Administration: Inducing and maintaining a controlled state of unconsciousness ('sleep') using intravenous or inhaled medications, ensuring patient comfort and immobility during major surgery.
- Regional Anesthesia Techniques: Numbing specific body regions using targeted nerve blocks (e.g., spinal, epidural, peripheral nerve blocks) for surgery or pain control, potentially allowing the patient to remain awake or sedated.
- Acute Postoperative Pain Management: Implementing strategies to manage pain immediately after surgery, utilizing multimodal approaches like regional blocks, IV medications, or patient-controlled analgesia (PCA).
- Fluid and Blood Product Management: Administering intravenous fluids and blood products as needed during procedures to maintain hemodynamic stability.
Note: This list outlines typical areas of anesthetic practice. The specific anesthetic plan for your procedure will be determined by Dr. Hatcher (or an associate) in consultation with you and your surgeon/proceduralist based on your health and the requirements of the procedure. Subspecialty services like chronic pain management may require a separate referral pathway.
All medical services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO).
Dr. Hatcher primarily practices at medical facilities situated in and around central Owen Sound, ON, conveniently accessible for residents and visitors. These facilities are located near local points of interest such as the Owen Sound Harbour and Sydenham River, making it easy for patients to reach appointments. The sites are accessible via public transit options including local bus routes. The facility is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility.
- How is payment handled for anesthesia care with Dr. Hatcher? Is it covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP)?
- In ON, medically necessary anesthesia services provided by specialists like Dr. Hatcher during provincially insured surgical or medical procedures are typically covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP). Pre-anesthetic consultations related to these procedures are also usually covered. Fees for specific uninsured services (e.g., certain non-medically required procedures, form completion) may apply based on provincial guidelines. Please confirm coverage with Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) for specific circumstances.
- Can I directly request Dr. Hatcher for my anesthesia?
- While you can discuss preferences with your surgeon, the assignment of an Anesthesiologist is typically managed by the hospital's anesthesia department or the surgical group based on scheduling, expertise required, and availability. Your surgeon arranges the necessary anesthesia care, which includes consultation with an anesthesiologist like Dr. Hatcher from the team covering your procedure.
- How will my pain be managed after the procedure?
- Effective pain management is a priority. Depending on the procedure, Dr. Hatcher may use strategies like regional nerve blocks placed before or during surgery for prolonged numbness, patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) pumps, epidural infusions, or a combination of different types of pain medications (multimodal analgesia). The goal is to keep you comfortable to aid recovery and mobility. This plan is often coordinated with the surgical team.
- Will I definitely meet the Anesthesiologist before my surgery/procedure?
- You will always have an anesthesia assessment before your procedure. For major surgeries or complex health issues, this often occurs at a pre-admission clinic days or weeks beforehand. For healthier patients undergoing shorter procedures, the detailed discussion and assessment with Dr. Hatcher (or a colleague providing your care that day) may happen just before the procedure starts. In either case, your questions will be answered.
Units 15 to 20, 1800 8th Street East
Owen Sound, ON N4K 6M9
Phone: (519) 376-2121
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Hatcher is a licensed physician regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) under the Medicine Act, 1991 in ON. Anesthesia services are typically arranged through the hospital or clinic where your procedure is scheduled.
Verify registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Hatcher-David-Scott/0052453-66417