Dr. David James MacLennan – Anesthesiologist | New Westminster, BC

Dr. David James MacLennan, a respected Anesthesiologist, is committed to the highest standards of perioperative care and pain management. Practicing primarily at medical facilities in New Westminster, BC, he contributes to the surgical and procedural teams with a focus on patient safety and comfort. His practice adheres closely to the standards established by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC). Subspecialty interests or areas of focus may include specialty practice - anesthesiology, ensuring comprehensive and tailored care for each patient requiring anesthesia for surgical or medical procedures.

Dr. MacLennan graduated with a Medical Doctor (MD) degree from the University of British Columbia in 1989 and has completed extensive post-graduate training in Anesthesiology. His certifications include successful completion of specialized residency training in anesthesiology, equipping him with the expertise necessary for safe and effective patient care in various anesthetic modalities.

His clinical philosophy is centered on providing calm, reassuring, and patient-centered care. Dr. MacLennan places a strong emphasis on patient safety, clear communication, and compassionate support throughout the perioperative experience. He speaks fluent English and is dedicated to making each patient’s experience as comfortable and stress-free as possible in New Westminster’s healthcare environment.

• Intraoperative Monitoring: Continuous monitoring of vital signs (heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen levels, breathing) and anesthetic depth throughout the procedure to ensure patient safety.
• 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.
• 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.

Note: This list outlines typical areas of anesthetic practice. The specific anesthetic plan for your procedure will be determined by Dr. MacLennan (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. MacLennan primarily practices at medical facilities located in the Uptown and Massey Victory Heights neighborhoods of New Westminster. The practice is conveniently situated near Westminster Pier Park, with easy access via TransLink’s SkyTrain Expo Line and local bus routes. The facility is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility, providing convenient access for patients and visitors.

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

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

Do Anesthesiologists only work in the operating room?

While the OR is central, Anesthesiologists like Dr. MacLennan 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)

His specific areas of practice will depend on his training and hospital or clinic roles.

330 Columbia St E, Royal Columbian Hospital, Dept. of Anaesthesia
New Westminster, BC V3L 3W7

Phone: (604) 520-4602

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. MacLennan 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/306596/MacLennan%2CDavid