Dr. Joshua William Alexander Briggs – Anesthesiologist | Red Deer, AB

With expertise in Anesthesiology, Dr. Joshua William Alexander Briggs ensures patients receive appropriate anesthetic management tailored to their needs. Practicing primarily at medical facilities in Red Deer, AB, he contributes to the surgical and procedural teams, adhering to the highest standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA). Dr. Briggs provides comprehensive care in the field of Anesthesiology, focusing on patient safety and comfort during all perioperative stages.

Dr. Briggs graduated with a Doctor of Medicine (MD) from Dalhousie University in 2016 and completed extensive post-graduate training in Anesthesiology. His certification process included rigorous postgraduate medical education, ensuring a strong foundation in anesthetic principles, patient assessment, and perioperative management.

His clinical philosophy emphasizes professionalism and clinical excellence, with a steadfast commitment to ensuring patient safety in Red Deer. Dr. Briggs communicates fluently in English and is dedicated to providing patient-centered care that prioritizes safety, comfort, and effective communication throughout the anesthetic process.

• 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.
• 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.
• Intraoperative Monitoring: Continuous monitoring of vital signs (heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen levels, breathing) and anesthetic depth throughout the procedure to ensure patient safety.

Note: This list outlines typical areas of anesthetic practice. The specific anesthetic plan for your procedure will be determined by Dr. Briggs (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. Briggs primarily practices at medical facilities situated in the North Red Deer neighborhood, including areas such as Normandeau and Highland Green. These facilities are conveniently located near the Major East-West Arterial and G.H. Dawe Community Centre, making access straightforward for patients. The clinics are accessible via Red Deer Transit, ensuring ease of transportation. The facility is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility.

How is payment handled for anesthesia care with Dr. Briggs? Is it covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP)?

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

What are the main types of anesthesia you might use?

Dr. Briggs selects the safest and most appropriate anesthetic based on your health and the procedure. Options include:

• General Anesthesia: You'll be completely unconscious and unaware.
• Regional Anesthesia: A specific body part is numbed (e.g., spinal/epidural for lower body, nerve block for arm/leg). You might be awake or sedated.
• Monitored Anesthesia Care (MAC)/Sedation: Medication helps you relax and feel drowsy, often used with local anesthetic by the surgeon.

The choice will be discussed with you beforehand.

3942 50a Ave, Red Deer Regional Hospital
Red Deer, AB T4N 4E7

Phone: (403) 343-4422

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Briggs 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=083116c4-e1ab-465e-bf29-bf180b47ac78&i=211