About
Dr. Jennifer Alex Firth-Gieben, a respected Anesthesiologist, is committed to the highest standards of perioperative care and pain management. Practicing primarily at medical facilities in Kamloops, BC, she contributes to the surgical and procedural teams, ensuring patient safety and comfort during all stages of anesthesia. Her practice adheres strictly to the standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC). Dr. Firth-Gieben's focus is on providing individualized anesthetic plans tailored to each patient's needs, with a primary goal of optimizing safety and outcomes for patients requiring anesthesia for surgical or medical procedures.
Dr. Firth-Gieben graduated with a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (BM BS) from the University of Sheffield Medical School in 2003 in the United Kingdom. She completed extensive postgraduate training in Anesthesiology, including residency and certification processes, to develop her expertise across all areas of anesthesia practice. Her certifications reflect her commitment to maintaining the highest standards of clinical excellence and patient safety.
Her clinical philosophy emphasizes professionalism and clinical excellence, with a dedicated focus on patient safety, effective communication, and compassionate care. She speaks English fluently and is committed to delivering culturally sensitive care within the Kamloops community. Dr. Firth-Gieben strives to ensure that each patient feels informed, safe, and comfortable throughout their procedural experience.
- Procedural Sedation (Outside OR): Administering sedation and monitoring for procedures performed outside the main operating rooms, such as in endoscopy suites or radiology.
- Airway Management Expertise: Skilled management of the patient's airway, including intubation (placing a breathing tube) when necessary, ensuring adequate oxygenation and ventilation.
- 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.
- Intraoperative Monitoring: Continuous monitoring of vital signs (heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen levels, breathing) and anesthetic depth throughout the procedure to ensure patient safety.
- 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.
Note: This list outlines typical areas of anesthetic practice. The specific anesthetic plan for your procedure will be determined by Dr. Firth-Gieben (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. Firth-Gieben primarily practices at medical facilities located in the Downtown Kamloops and South Shore East (Valleyview) neighborhoods of Kamloops. These facilities are situated along major access routes, making them convenient for patients traveling from various parts of the region. Accessibility is enhanced by the Kamloops Transit System (BC Transit), allowing patients to reach the locations via public transportation. The facilities are wheelchair accessible, ensuring comfort and ease of access for all patients. Parking is available at the facilities, providing convenient options for those arriving by private vehicle.
- How is payment handled for anesthesia care with Dr. Firth-Gieben? Is it covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP)?
- In BC, medically necessary anesthesia services provided by specialists like Dr. Firth-Gieben 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. Firth-Gieben 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. Firth-Gieben from the team covering your procedure.
- How do my existing health conditions (e.g., heart problems, asthma, sleep apnea) affect anesthesia?
- Existing health conditions are a key part of the pre-anesthetic assessment. Dr. Firth-Gieben needs to know about all conditions like heart disease, lung problems (asthma, COPD, sleep apnea), diabetes, kidney disease, etc. This information allows her to choose the safest anesthetic drugs and techniques, anticipate potential issues, and optimize monitoring during your procedure. For example, adjustments might be made for sleep apnea or specific cardiac monitoring used for heart conditions.
- 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.
311 Columbia St, Royal Inland Hospital
Kamloops, BC V2C 2T1
Phone: (250) 374-5111
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Firth-Gieben 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/376633/Firth-Gieben%2CJennifer