About
As a skilled Anesthesiologist, Dr. David Robert Palmer plays a crucial role in patient safety and comfort during the perioperative period. Practicing primarily at facilities in Calgary, AB, he contributes to the surgical and procedural teams by providing comprehensive care in Anesthesiology. His practice adheres strictly to the standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA), ensuring the highest level of professionalism and safety for all patients requiring anesthesia for surgical or medical procedures.
Dr. Palmer graduated with a Medical Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) in 2007 from the United Kingdom. He completed extensive post-graduate training in Anesthesiology, gaining certification and experience necessary to deliver safe, effective anesthesia care. His advanced training includes comprehensive education in all aspects of perioperative anesthesia management, pain control, and emergency response, equipping him to handle a wide range of clinical scenarios with confidence and precision.
His clinical philosophy centers on providing calm, reassuring, and patient-centered care. Dr. Palmer is deeply committed to ensuring patient safety and comfort in Calgary’s diverse healthcare environment. He speaks fluent English and values clear communication to help patients feel at ease throughout their surgical experience. His focus is on fostering a trusting relationship, guiding patients through their anesthesia journey with professionalism and compassion.
- Fluid and Blood Product Management: Administering intravenous fluids and blood products as needed during procedures to maintain hemodynamic stability.
- 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.
- 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.
- Management of Anesthetic Emergencies: Rapid diagnosis and treatment of critical events or complications that may arise during anesthesia.
Note: This list outlines typical areas of anesthetic practice. The specific anesthetic plan for your procedure will be determined by Dr. Palmer (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. Palmer primarily practices at medical facilities located in the NW: Hillhurst, Westmount, Sunnyside (Kensington) neighborhood of Calgary, which are housed in historic buildings. These locations are conveniently accessible via Calgary Transit, including CTrain LRT, bus, and BRT services. The facilities are designed to accommodate all patients comfortably and safely. The facility is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility.
- How is payment handled for anesthesia care with Dr. Palmer? Is it covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP)?
- In AB, medically necessary anesthesia services provided by specialists like Dr. Palmer 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. Palmer 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. Palmer from the team covering your procedure.
- What are common side effects of anesthesia?
- Common, usually temporary side effects can include nausea, vomiting, sore throat (if a breathing tube was used), drowsiness, dizziness, shivering, or minor discomfort at an IV or block site. Dr. Palmer takes steps to minimize these (e.g., using anti-nausea medication). More serious side effects are uncommon but will be discussed if relevant to your specific situation.
1403 29 Street NW, Foothills Medical Centre
Calgary, AB T2N 2T9
Phone: (403) 944-1110
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Palmer 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=25ef77c3-2494-4703-a395-4822e1851f30&i=1119