Dr. Connie Elizabeth Drewbrook – Anesthesiologist | North Vancouver, BC

Dr. Connie Elizabeth Drewbrook, a respected Anesthesiologist, is committed to the highest standards of perioperative care and pain management. Practicing primarily at medical facilities in North Vancouver, BC, she contributes to the surgical and procedural teams. Her practice adheres strictly to the guidelines and standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC), ensuring that every patient receives safe, effective, and compassionate care. Her focus may include subspecialty interests within anesthesiology, aiming to optimize patient comfort and safety during medical procedures.

Dr. Drewbrook graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of British Columbia in 2017 and completed extensive postgraduate training in Anesthesiology. Her certifications include successful completion of accredited programs in anesthesiology, equipping her with the expertise required for complex perioperative management and pain control.

Her clinical philosophy centers on providing calm, reassuring, and patient-centered anesthesia care. She is dedicated to maintaining the highest safety standards for her patients in North Vancouver and speaks fluent English, facilitating clear communication and reassurance throughout the perioperative process.

• Airway Management Expertise: Skilled management of the patient's airway, including intubation (placing a breathing tube) when necessary, ensuring adequate oxygenation and ventilation.
• 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.
• Fluid and Blood Product Management: Administering intravenous fluids and blood products as needed during procedures to maintain hemodynamic stability.
• Anesthesia for Outpatient/Ambulatory Surgery: Providing safe and effective anesthesia tailored for procedures where patients are expected to go home the same day.
• 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).

Note: This list outlines typical areas of anesthetic practice. The specific anesthetic plan for your procedure will be determined by Dr. Drewbrook (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 British Columbia (CPSBC).

Dr. Drewbrook primarily practices at medical facilities situated in the central North Vancouver area. These facilities are conveniently located near local points of interest such as the Lonsdale Quay Market and the Capilano Suspension Bridge. Easily accessible via public transit, including bus routes and the Seabus terminal, patients can reach the clinics with ease. The facilities are wheelchair accessible, ensuring comfort and convenience for all patients. Parking is available at the facility, providing a hassle-free experience for those arriving by car.

How is payment handled for anesthesia care with Dr. Drewbrook? Is it covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP)?

In BC, medically necessary anesthesia services provided by specialists like Dr. Drewbrook during provincially insured surgical or medical procedures are typically covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP). 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 Medical Services Plan (MSP) for specific circumstances.

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

Do Anesthesiologists only work in the operating room?

While the OR is central, Anesthesiologists like Dr. Drewbrook often work in other areas too, including:

• Labour and delivery suites (providing epidurals)
• Intensive Care Units (managing critically ill patients)
• Pre-operative assessment clinics
• Pain clinics (treating chronic pain)
• Procedure rooms (e.g., endoscopy, radiology, cardiology)

Her specific areas of practice will depend on her training and hospital/clinic roles.

What about nausea and vomiting after anesthesia?

Postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) can occur, but Dr. Drewbrook uses strategies to prevent it, especially for patients at higher risk. This may include specific anesthetic techniques, administering anti-nausea medications before, during, or after the procedure, and ensuring adequate hydration. If you do experience nausea, effective treatments are available in the recovery room.

231 15th St East, Lions Gate Hospital
North Vancouver, BC V7L 2L7

Phone: (604) 988-3131

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Drewbrook is a licensed physician regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) under the Health Professions Act in BC. 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 British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/343693/Drewbrook%2CConnie