About
With expertise in Anesthesiology, Dr. Kelly Heape ensures patients receive appropriate anesthetic management tailored to their needs. Practicing primarily at facilities in New Westminster, BC, she contributes to the surgical and procedural teams with a focus on patient safety and comfort. Her practice adheres to the standards and guidelines set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC), ensuring high-quality, evidence-based care. Dr. Heape's role involves comprehensive preoperative assessment, intraoperative anesthetic management, and postoperative care to optimize patient outcomes during surgical and medical procedures.
Dr. Kelly Heape graduated with a Doctor of Medicine (MD) from SUNY Downstate Medical Center College of Medicine in 2009 in the United States. She completed extensive post-graduate training in Anesthesiology, acquiring the necessary skills and certifications to provide specialized anesthesia care. Her training included rotations in various subspecialty areas, emphasizing patient safety, pain management, and critical care.
Her clinical philosophy is centered on clear and educational communication, ensuring patients are well-informed and comfortable throughout their perioperative experience. Dr. Heape is committed to maintaining the highest standards of safety and professionalism in her practice. Fluent in English, she strives to provide compassionate, patient-centered care to the diverse community of New Westminster.
- Fluid and Blood Product Management: Administering intravenous fluids and blood products as needed during procedures to maintain hemodynamic stability.
- 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.
- 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.
- Intraoperative Monitoring: Continuous monitoring of vital signs (heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen levels, breathing) and anesthetic depth throughout the procedure to ensure patient safety.
- Anesthesia for Outpatient/Ambulatory Surgery: Providing safe and effective anesthesia tailored for procedures where patients are expected to go home the same day.
Note: This list outlines typical areas of anesthetic practice. The specific anesthetic plan for your procedure will be determined by Dr. Heape (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. Heape primarily practices at medical facilities located in the Uptown, Massey Victory Heights neighborhood of New Westminster, BC. These facilities are conveniently situated near the Uptown Business District and are easily accessible via TransLink, including the SkyTrain Expo Line and local bus routes. The practice location offers a comfortable environment for patients undergoing anesthesia services. The facility is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility.
- How is payment handled for anesthesia care with Dr. Heape? Is it covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP)?
- In BC, medically necessary anesthesia services provided by specialists like Dr. Heape 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. Heape 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. Heape from the team covering your procedure.
- 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.
- What are common side effects of anesthesia?
- Common, usually temporary side effects can include nausea, vomiting, sore throat (if a breathing tube was used), drowsiness, dizziness, shivering, or minor discomfort at an IV or block site. Dr. Heape takes steps to minimize these (e.g., using anti-nausea medication). More serious side effects are uncommon but will be discussed if relevant to your specific situation.
- 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.
330 Columbia St E, RCH
New Westminster, BC V3L 3W7
Phone: (602) 217-4652
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Heape 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/376940/Heape%2CKelly