Dr. Joshua Marc Koczerginski is an experienced Emergency Physician (FRCPC), committed to delivering high-quality acute medical care to patients presenting to the Emergency Department. Practicing at the Emergency Department in New Westminster, BC, he is a key member of the frontline medical team serving the community. He adheres to the standards and ethical guidelines set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC). Dr. Koczerginski's role involves the rapid assessment, diagnosis, and stabilization of a broad spectrum of urgent and emergent medical, surgical, and traumatic conditions across all age groups. This includes managing time-sensitive situations, performing necessary emergency procedures, and coordinating care effectively within a fast-paced ER environment. The Emergency Department operates 24/7, ensuring that patients with urgent or life-threatening conditions receive timely attention. Care is provided based on the severity of the condition, determined through a systematic triage process.
He graduated with an MD from the University of Ottawa in 2013 and has completed extensive postgraduate training to attain certification as an Emergency Physician (FRCPC). He holds all necessary credentials and certifications to practice emergency medicine in British Columbia, including advanced life support and other relevant emergency medicine certifications.
Dr. Koczerginski’s professional philosophy emphasizes rapid and accurate assessment in critical situations, providing compassionate care under pressure, and maintaining effective teamwork and communication within the multidisciplinary ER team. He is dedicated to adhering to evidence-based emergency medicine protocols, prioritizing patient safety, and advocating for patient needs in acute settings. He delivers emergency care in English and is committed to serving the community of New Westminster with professionalism and compassion.
Dr. Joshua Koczerginski is experienced in assessing and managing a wide array of acute medical and surgical emergencies, including (but not limited to):
Acute Cardiovascular Conditions
Dr. Koczerginski manages encompassing life-threatening heart and circulatory problems frequently encountered and managed within the emergency department setting.
- Aortic Dissection / Aneurysm (Suspected): Maintaining a high index of suspicion for these conditions in patients presenting with severe, tearing chest, back, or abdominal pain, or unexplained syncope.
- Hypertensive Emergencies: Urgent management of severely elevated blood pressure (hypertensive crisis) associated with evidence of acute or ongoing end-organ damage (e.g., encephalopathy, stroke, myocardial ischemia, acute kidney injury).
- Acute Heart Failure Exacerbation: Emergency management of sudden worsening of chronic heart failure symptoms, typically presenting as severe shortness of breath (dyspnea), fluid overload (edema), and orthopnea.
Acute Respiratory Conditions
Dr. Koczerginski manages providing immediate care for patients experiencing acute respiratory distress or failure.
- Pneumothorax (Spontaneous or Traumatic): Identifying underlying lung conditions (e.g., blebs, bullae, COPD) that may predispose to spontaneous pneumothorax.
- Pneumonia (Severe or Complicated): Diagnosis and initiation of treatment for lung infections, particularly severe community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) or healthcare-associated pneumonia (HCAP) presenting with respiratory distress or sepsis.
- COPD Exacerbation: Management of acute worsening of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), characterized by increased dyspnea, cough, and sputum production, often requiring bronchodilators, systemic corticosteroids, and antibiotics if bacterial infection is suspected.
Trauma and Musculoskeletal Injuries
Dr. Koczerginski manages offering immediate assessment, pain management, and stabilization for various physical injuries encountered in the emergency department setting.
- Head Trauma / Concussion (Mild Traumatic Brain Injury): Diagnosis and initial management of concussions (mild traumatic brain injuries), emphasizing patient and family education regarding symptoms, expected recovery course, cognitive and physical rest, and criteria for graduated return-to-play/activity/school.
- Multiple Trauma / Polytrauma (Initial Stabilization and Resuscitation): Systematic and prioritized trauma assessment following Advanced Trauma Life Support (ATLS) protocols to rapidly identify and address immediate life-threatening conditions (e.g., airway obstruction, tension pneumothorax, massive hemorrhage).
- Fractures, Dislocations, and Sprains/Strains: Effective initial pain management, timely closed reduction of simple joint dislocations (often under procedural sedation), and appropriate immobilization using splints, casts, or slings to protect the injured area.
This list is not exhaustive. The Emergency Department is equipped to handle a broad spectrum of urgent health issues. If you believe you have a medical emergency, please proceed to the nearest ER or call emergency services.
- Management of Acute Pain and Symptom Relief: Administration of appropriate analgesics (opioid and non-opioid) and adjunctive medications to alleviate acute pain from injuries or medical conditions.
- Resuscitation and Stabilization of Critically Ill Patients: Application of evidence-based resuscitation protocols to optimize outcomes for critically ill and injured patients.
- Diagnostic Workup for Acute Conditions: Utilizing point-of-care testing (POCT) and bedside imaging to expedite diagnosis in critical and time-sensitive situations.
- Diagnosis of Life-Threatening Emergencies: Rapid recognition and differentiation of time-sensitive medical emergencies requiring prompt, often life-saving, intervention.
- Rapid Triage and Initial Medical Assessment: Initial history taking, focused physical examination, and vital signs assessment for emergent and urgent conditions upon arrival.
- Treatment of Acute Infections and Sepsis: Administering appropriate antimicrobial agents for a wide range of bacterial, viral, and fungal infections presenting emergently.
Note: This list outlines key areas of emergency medical care. The services provided by Dr. Koczerginski are tailored to the immediate needs of patients in acute situations.
All emergency medical services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) and relevant CAEP (Canadian Association of Emergency Physicians) and relevant acute care guidelines. Emergency care is prioritized based on medical urgency.
The Emergency Department in New Westminster's Uptown, Massey Victory Heights neighborhood, is conveniently situated near the River Market and is easily accessible via TransLink (SkyTrain Expo Line, Bus). The hospital's facility is fully accessible to all patients, with dedicated parking spots for emergency access. Clear hospital signage directs ER patient drop-off and parking. The department serves as a critical access point for urgent medical care within the community, integrating comprehensive hospital services to meet a wide range of emergency needs.
- What is the role of the triage nurse when I arrive at the ER?
- The triage nurse in the ER performs a crucial initial assessment to rapidly evaluate how serious your condition is. They will ask about your symptoms, check your vital signs (like blood pressure, heart rate, and temperature), and assign you a triage level. This level dictates how quickly you need to be seen by an Emergency Room Doctor such as Dr. Koczerginski, ensuring that patients with life-threatening conditions receive immediate care. They are a key part of the ER team that ensures patient safety and efficient flow.
- When should I go to the Emergency Room (ER) where Dr. Koczerginski works, versus seeing my family doctor or going to a walk-in clinic?
- Deciding between the ER and other care options depends on severity. The Emergency Room is the correct place for acute, potentially severe conditions like difficulty breathing, chest pain, signs of a stroke, major trauma, severe allergic reactions, or uncontrolled bleeding. For ongoing health issues, minor ailments, or routine care, your family doctor offers continuity. Walk-in clinics can handle less severe acute issues. Dr. Koczerginski and the ER staff are prepared for urgent and life-threatening situations; using the ER appropriately helps ensure timely care for those who need it most. If in doubt about a serious condition, seek emergency assessment.
- What should I bring with me if I need to go to the Emergency Room where Dr. Koczerginski works?
- If you need to visit the ER, it's very helpful to bring your provincial health card and any other relevant insurance information. A complete list of your current medications (including name, dosage, and how often you take them), any known drug allergies, and a brief summary of your significant medical history (like major illnesses, past surgeries, or chronic conditions) can greatly assist Dr. Koczerginski and the ER team. If possible, also bring contact information for your family doctor. For children, their immunization record can be useful if it's readily available.
- Will my family doctor be informed about my visit to the ER with Dr. Koczerginski?
- Maintaining communication with your family doctor is crucial for your ongoing health management. After your assessment and treatment by Dr. Koczerginski in the Emergency Room, a report of your visit is generally forwarded to your primary care physician, especially if follow-up care or medication adjustments are necessary. To facilitate this, please make sure the ER registration staff have the correct contact details for your family doctor.
- What is the primary role of an Emergency Room Doctor like Dr. Koczerginski?
- An Emergency Room Doctor, such as Dr. Koczerginski, is a physician specifically trained to provide immediate medical evaluation and treatment for a wide spectrum of acute illnesses and injuries, ranging from minor concerns to critical, life-threatening emergencies. Their core role involves rapid assessment (triage and diagnosis), stabilization of vital functions, performing necessary emergency procedures, and making crucial decisions about patient disposition (admission, transfer, or discharge). As a an Emergency Physician certified by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, specializing in acute care, Dr. Koczerginski is highly skilled in managing the unpredictable and often high-pressure environment of the emergency department, working collaboratively with a team of nurses, technicians, and other specialists.
- When should I see Dr. Koczerginski in the ER versus my family doctor for a health issue?
- Dr. Koczerginski and the Emergency Room team are best equipped to handle acute, severe, or potentially life-threatening medical conditions. For ongoing care, management of chronic illnesses (unless there's an acute exacerbation), routine check-ups, preventative health measures, prescription refills for stable conditions, and non-urgent health concerns, your family doctor is the most appropriate healthcare provider. They offer continuity of care and have a comprehensive understanding of your overall health history. If your condition is not an emergency, consulting your family doctor or a walk-in clinic is generally recommended.
- Why are wait times in the Emergency Room sometimes long?
- Wait times in the Emergency Room can fluctuate significantly due to several factors. The primary reason is the triage process: patients with the most severe and time-sensitive conditions are treated immediately. If many critically ill patients arrive simultaneously, or if the department is experiencing high patient volumes or staffing challenges, those with less acute problems may face longer waits. Dr. Koczerginski and the ER staff understand that waiting can be frustrating and are committed to providing efficient care while ensuring the safety and well-being of all patients.
330 Columbia St E, Royal Columbian Hospital Emergency Department
New Westminster, BC V3L 3W7
Hospital Main Line: (604) 520-4253
The hospital Emergency Department is fully accessible to all patients.
Dr. Koczerginski is a licensed Emergency Physician (FRCPC) regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) under the Health Professions Act in BC. Emergency Room services are typically accessed by presenting directly to the Emergency Department or via ambulance (e.g., by calling 911) for urgent medical conditions. No direct referral is usually required to be seen in the ER by Dr. Koczerginski or the on-duty emergency team.
Verify Dr. Koczerginski's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/343260/Koczerginski%2CJoshua