About
With expertise in Anesthesiology, Dr. Debbie Lynn McAllister ensures patients receive appropriate anesthetic management tailored to their needs. Practicing primarily at medical facilities in Calgary, AB, she contributes to the surgical and procedural teams, adhering to the standards and guidelines set forth by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA). Her role focuses on providing safe, effective, and patient-centered anesthesia care, with a particular emphasis on ensuring comfort and safety during all procedures. Subspecialty interests or areas of focus may include Palliative Medicine, always aligned with the highest standards of practice.
Dr. McAllister graduated with a Doctor of Medicine (MD) from the University of Calgary in 1996 and completed extensive post-graduate training in Anesthesiology. Her certifications and ongoing professional development ensure she remains current with the latest advances and best practices in anesthetic care, committed to maintaining the highest standards of patient safety and comfort.
Her clinical philosophy centers on a calm and reassuring approach, prioritizing patient safety and comfort throughout the perioperative experience. She is dedicated to providing compassionate care in Calgary and speaks English fluently, ensuring clear communication with her patients and team members alike.
- Anesthesia for Outpatient/Ambulatory Surgery: Providing safe and effective anesthesia tailored for procedures where patients are expected to go home the same day.
- Intraoperative Monitoring: Continuous monitoring of vital signs (heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen levels, breathing) and anesthetic depth throughout the procedure to ensure patient safety.
- Procedural Sedation (Outside OR): Administering sedation and monitoring for procedures performed outside the main operating rooms, such as in endoscopy suites or radiology.
- Fluid and Blood Product Management: Administering intravenous fluids and blood products as needed during procedures to maintain hemodynamic stability.
- 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. McAllister (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. McAllister primarily practices at medical facilities located in the NW area of Calgary, including Bowness, Montgomery, and the Greenwood neighborhood. Her location provides convenient access to the Peter Lougheed Centre and Foothills Medical Centre, two major hospitals in the city. The facilities are easily accessible via Calgary Transit, including CTrain LRT, bus, and BRT services. The practice locations are situated in accessible environments, with the facility being wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility, ensuring ease of access for all patients.
- How is payment handled for anesthesia care with Dr. McAllister? Is it covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP)?
- In AB, medically necessary anesthesia services provided by specialists like Dr. McAllister 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. McAllister 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. McAllister 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.
28 Oki Dr NW, Alberta Children's Hospital
Calgary, AB T3B 6A8
Phone: (403) 955-7810 | Fax: (403) 955-7606
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. McAllister 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=c6056d82-3476-4f96-a06a-036e0e2a3b30&i=950