Dr. Colin James Bands – Anesthesiologist | Calgary, AB

As a skilled Anesthesiologist, Dr. Colin James Bands plays a crucial role in patient safety and comfort during the perioperative period. Practicing primarily at medical facilities in Calgary, AB, he contributes to the surgical and procedural teams. Dr. Bands adheres to the standards and guidelines established by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA), ensuring the highest quality of care for his patients. His focus is on delivering safe, effective anesthesia services tailored to individual patient needs, with particular attention to minimizing risks and enhancing comfort throughout surgical procedures.

Dr. Bands completed his medical education with an MB ChB degree in 1983 from South Africa and has undergone extensive postgraduate training in Anesthesiology. He holds key certifications and qualifications that attest to his expertise, including certification by recognized bodies in anesthesiology. His postgraduate training has included comprehensive clinical rotations and specialized fellowships that prepare him to manage a wide spectrum of anesthetic practices and emergencies with competence and confidence.

Driven by a professional and clinical approach, Dr. Bands is committed to maintaining the highest standards of patient safety within Calgary’s healthcare environment. He communicates fluently in English and Afrikaans, enabling him to provide culturally sensitive care to diverse patient populations. His philosophy centers on evidence-based practice, patient-centered care, and continuous improvement in anesthetic techniques to optimize outcomes and patient satisfaction.

• Procedural Sedation (Outside OR): Administering sedation and monitoring for procedures performed outside the main operating rooms, such as in endoscopy suites or radiology.
• Management of Anesthetic Emergencies: Rapid diagnosis and treatment of critical events or complications that may arise during anesthesia.
• Fluid and Blood Product Management: Administering intravenous fluids and blood products as needed during procedures to maintain hemodynamic stability.
• 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. Bands (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. Bands primarily practices at medical facilities located in the NW: Hillhurst, Westmount, and Sunnyside (Kensington) neighborhoods of Calgary. These facilities are conveniently situated near North Hill Centre and connect seamlessly to NW and SW transportation routes. They are easily accessible via Calgary Transit, including CTrain LRT, bus, and BRT services. The facility is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility.

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

In AB, medically necessary anesthesia services provided by specialists like Dr. Bands 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. Bands 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. Bands from the team covering your procedure.

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.

What are the main types of anesthesia you might use?

Dr. Bands 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.

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. Bands (or a colleague providing your care that day) may happen just before the procedure starts. In either case, your questions will be answered.

1403 29 St NW
Calgary, AB T2N 2T9

Phone: (403) 944-1430

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Bands 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=64556552-8480-4849-8c9b-e36cfd7a8fc0&i=134