Dr. Jane Merriam Henderson – Anesthesiologist | Victoria, BC

As a skilled Anesthesiologist, Dr. Jane Merriam Henderson plays a crucial role in patient safety and comfort during the perioperative period. Practicing primarily at medical facilities in Victoria, BC, she contributes to the surgical and procedural teams, ensuring that each patient receives personalized and attentive care. Her practice adheres strictly to the standards and guidelines established by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC), emphasizing safety, professionalism, and compassion.

Dr. Henderson graduated with her Medical Degree from Dalhousie University in 1982 and has completed extensive postgraduate training in Anesthesiology. She holds key certifications in her specialty, reflecting her commitment to ongoing professional development and clinical excellence. Her training equips her with comprehensive expertise in all aspects of anesthesia and perioperative medicine, allowing her to provide safe, effective, and patient-centered care.

Her clinical philosophy is rooted in calm and reassuring communication, prioritizing patient safety and comfort at every stage. Dr. Henderson is dedicated to serving patients requiring anesthesia for a wide range of surgical and medical procedures in Victoria. She speaks English fluently and strives to create a supportive environment where patients feel confident and cared for throughout their perioperative experience.

• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• Procedural Sedation (Outside OR): Administering sedation and monitoring for procedures performed outside the main operating rooms, such as in endoscopy suites or radiology.

Note: This list outlines typical areas of anesthetic practice. The specific anesthetic plan for your procedure will be determined by Dr. Henderson (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. Henderson primarily practices at medical facilities located in the Quadra Village and Topaz Park Area neighborhoods of Victoria, BC. These facilities are conveniently situated near the Bay Centre Shopping Mall, making access straightforward for patients. The practice is easily accessible via the Victoria Regional Transit System (BC Transit). The facility is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility.

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

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

What's the difference between an Anesthesiologist and other anesthesia providers?

In Canada, an Anesthesiologist is a medical doctor (MD) with extensive postgraduate specialty training (typically 5+ years after medical school) covering all aspects of anesthesia, critical care, and pain management. They lead the anesthesia care team. Other professionals, like respiratory therapists or specialized nurses, may assist under the direct supervision of the Anesthesiologist.

What happens in the recovery room (PACU)?

After your procedure under general or regional anesthesia/sedation, you will be taken to the Post-Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU), also known as the recovery room. Specially trained nurses will closely monitor your breathing, heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen level, and level of consciousness as you wake up. They will also manage any immediate pain or nausea under the guidance of the anesthesia team.

Do Anesthesiologists only work in the operating room?

While the OR is central, Anesthesiologists like Dr. Henderson 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.

203-3550 Saanich Rd, Island Kids Dentistry
Victoria, BC V8X 1X2

Phone: (250) 818-4330

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Henderson 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/364737/Henderson%2CJane