Dr. Alika Lafontaine – Anesthesiologist | Grande Prairie, AB

With expertise in Anesthesiology, Dr. Alika Lafontaine ensures patients receive appropriate anesthetic management tailored to their needs. Practicing primarily at medical facilities in the Central Grande Prairie, Mountview, Swanavon neighborhood of Grande Prairie, he contributes to the surgical and procedural teams with a calming and professional presence. Dr. Lafontaine adheres strictly to the standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) and provides comprehensive care in the field of Anesthesiology.

He graduated with a Doctor of Medicine (MD) from the University of Saskatchewan in 2006 and completed extensive post-graduate training in Anesthesiology. His certifications include comprehensive residency training, ensuring a high level of expertise and safety in all anesthetic procedures he oversees.

Dr. Lafontaine's clinical philosophy centers on creating a calm and reassuring environment for his patients. He is dedicated to prioritizing patient safety during all procedures and communicates clearly to ensure comfort and understanding. He speaks fluent English and is committed to delivering compassionate, patient-centered care in Grande Prairie.

• Procedural Sedation (Outside OR): Administering sedation and monitoring for procedures performed outside the main operating rooms, such as in endoscopy suites or radiology.
• 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.
• 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.
• Anesthesia for Outpatient/Ambulatory Surgery: Providing safe and effective anesthesia tailored for procedures where patients are expected to go home the same day.
• 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. Lafontaine (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 Alberta (CPSA).

Dr. Lafontaine primarily practices at medical facilities located in central Grande Prairie, including the neighborhoods of Mountview and Swanavon. His practice is conveniently situated near the Eastlink Centre (Aquatic & Fitness) and Northwestern Polytechnic (formerly GPRC). The facilities are accessible via Grande Prairie Transit, ensuring ease of access for all patients. The practice location is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility.

How is payment handled for anesthesia care with Dr. Lafontaine? Is it covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP)?

In AB, medically necessary anesthesia services provided by specialists like Dr. Lafontaine during provincially insured surgical or medical procedures are typically covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP). 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 Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) for specific circumstances.

Can I directly request Dr. Lafontaine 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. Lafontaine from the team covering your procedure.

What are the main types of anesthesia you might use?

Dr. Lafontaine selects the safest and most appropriate anesthetic based on your health and the procedure. Options include:

• General Anesthesia: You'll be completely unconscious and unaware.
• Regional Anesthesia: A specific body part is numbed (e.g., spinal/epidural for lower body, nerve block for arm/leg). You might be awake or sedated.
• Monitored Anesthesia Care (MAC)/Sedation: Medication helps you relax and feel drowsy, often used with local anesthetic by the surgeon.

The choice will be discussed with you beforehand.

11205 110 St
Grande Prairie, AB T8V 4B1

Phone: (825) 412-4000

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Lafontaine is a licensed physician regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) under the Health Professions Act in AB. 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 Alberta (CPSA): https://search.cpsa.ca/PhysicianProfile?e=a8269d3d-cdd8-462b-9650-31f8a50ed313&i=807