About
Dr. Lynn Margaret Lafreniere, a respected Anesthesiologist, is committed to the highest standards of perioperative care and pain management. Practicing primarily at facilities in Oakville, ON, she contributes to the surgical and procedural teams, ensuring patient safety and comfort during all stages of anesthesia care. Her practice aligns with the rigorous standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), and she provides comprehensive care in Anesthesiology to patients requiring anesthesia for surgical or medical procedures.
Dr. Lafreniere graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of Leeds School of Medicine in 1988, in the United Kingdom. She has been practicing as a specialist in Anesthesiology for over 17 years, since 2007. She is certified by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, demonstrating her expertise and commitment to ongoing professional development in her field.
Her clinical philosophy is centered on clear and educational communication, emphasizing patient safety and individualized care. She is dedicated to ensuring that each patient receives the highest standard of anesthesia care, with a focus on safety, comfort, and effective pain management. Dr. Lafreniere speaks English and is committed to serving her patients in Oakville with compassion and professionalism.
- Management of Anesthetic Emergencies: Rapid diagnosis and treatment of critical events or complications that may arise during anesthesia.
- 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.
- 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.
- Monitored Anesthesia Care (MAC) / Sedation: Providing varying levels of sedation (light to deep) and analgesia, combined with close monitoring of vital signs, for procedures not requiring general anesthesia.
- Airway Management Expertise: Skilled management of the patient's airway, including intubation (placing a breathing tube) when necessary, ensuring adequate oxygenation and ventilation.
Note: This list outlines typical areas of anesthetic practice. The specific anesthetic plan for your procedure will be determined by Dr. Lafreniere (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. Lafreniere's practice is primarily based at McMaster Children's Hospital, located in the West Oak Trails, Glen Abbey West neighborhood of Oakville. The location offers convenient proximity to Oakville Trafalgar Memorial Hospital and Iroquois Ridge Community Centre. Patients can access the facility via Oakville Transit, ensuring ease of travel. The facility is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility.
- How is payment handled for anesthesia care with Dr. Lafreniere? Is it covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP)?
- In ON, medically necessary anesthesia services provided by specialists like Dr. Lafreniere 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. Lafreniere 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. Lafreniere from the team covering your procedure.
- What happens in the recovery room (PACU)?
- After your procedure under general or regional anesthesia/sedation, you will be taken to the Post-Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU), also known as the recovery room. Specially trained nurses will closely monitor your breathing, heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen level, and level of consciousness as you wake up. They will also manage any immediate pain or nausea under the guidance of the anesthesia team.
- Should I take my regular medications on the day of the procedure?
- This depends entirely on the specific medication and instructions given to you. You MUST discuss all your regular medications with your surgeon and the anesthesia team during your pre-assessment. Some medications (like certain blood pressure pills) may be taken with a sip of water, while others (especially blood thinners, some diabetes medications) must be stopped or adjusted days beforehand. Never change your medication routine without specific instructions.
McMaster Children's Hospital
HSC 3N27, 3001 Hospital Gate
Oakville, ON L6M 0L8
Phone: (905) 845-2571
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Lafreniere 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/Lafreniere-Lynn-Margaret/0229005-83952