Dr. Kenneth John Van Dewark – Emergency Room Doctor | Vancouver, BC

Dr. Kenneth John Van Dewark 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 Vancouver, BC, he is a key member of the frontline medical team serving the community. He adheres to the standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC). Dr. Van Dewark'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 effectively coordinating care within the fast-paced ER environment. The Emergency Department operates 24/7 to provide critical care for urgent and life-threatening conditions, prioritizing patients based on the severity of their illness as determined by a triage process.

He graduated with his MD from the University of Toronto in 2012 and has completed extensive postgraduate training in emergency medicine. Dr. Van Dewark holds the specialty certification as an Emergency Physician (FRCPC), which affirms his expertise and adherence to the highest standards of emergency care in British Columbia. His certifications include advanced life support, trauma management, and acute resuscitation protocols, ensuring he is well-equipped to handle complex emergencies.

Dr. Van Dewark’s professional philosophy centers on providing rapid, accurate assessments in critical situations, delivering compassionate care under pressure, and prioritizing patient safety. He values effective teamwork and communication within the multidisciplinary ER team and strictly adheres to evidence-based emergency medicine protocols. Dedicated to serving the Vancouver community, he strives to ensure every patient receives timely, respectful, and effective emergency care in English.

Dr. Kenneth Van Dewark is experienced in assessing and managing a wide array of acute medical and surgical emergencies, including (but not limited to):

Acute Cardiovascular Conditions

Dr. Van Dewark manages addressing emergent conditions of the cardiovascular system that can lead to significant morbidity or mortality if not promptly diagnosed and treated.

• Cardiac Arrhythmias (e.g., Atrial Fibrillation with Rapid Response, Ventricular Tachycardia): Prompt diagnosis and emergency management of hemodynamically significant abnormal heart rhythms, including electrical cardioversion, pharmacological cardioversion, or rate control strategies.
• Aortic Dissection / Aneurysm (Suspected): Managing potential complications such as malperfusion syndromes.

Acute Respiratory Conditions

Dr. Van Dewark manages evaluating and treating sudden onset or severe worsening of breathing difficulties from various causes.

• COPD Exacerbation: Careful assessment for signs of respiratory failure and the need for supplemental oxygen or ventilatory support (non-invasive or invasive).
• 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.
• Pulmonary Embolism: Prompt initiation of anticoagulation therapy for confirmed PE, or thrombolytic therapy for hemodynamically unstable (massive) PE.

Trauma and Musculoskeletal Injuries

Dr. Van Dewark manages specializing in the initial resuscitation and care of patients with significant or multiple traumatic injuries.

• Minor and Major Lacerations, Abrasions, and Burns: Providing appropriate analgesia and ensuring follow-up for wound checks or suture removal.
• Fractures, Dislocations, and Sprains/Strains: Providing clear instructions for cast/splint care, weight-bearing status, and orthopedic follow-up.
• Soft Tissue Injuries (e.g., Contusions, Hematomas, Sprains): Careful examination to rule out more serious underlying injuries, such as fractures, compartment syndrome, or tendon ruptures.

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.

• Diagnosis of Life-Threatening Emergencies: Swift and accurate diagnosis of critical pathologies to facilitate immediate and appropriate therapeutic measures.
• Diagnostic Workup for Acute Conditions: Ordering and interpreting urgent laboratory tests (blood work, urinalysis, cardiac markers, etc.) and imaging studies (X-rays, CT scans, ultrasounds).
• Resuscitation and Stabilization of Critically Ill Patients: Expert airway management, including endotracheal intubation, cricothyrotomy, and initiation of mechanical ventilation support in acute respiratory emergencies.
• Rapid Triage and Initial Medical Assessment: Performing swift medical evaluations in the emergency setting to quickly ascertain the nature and severity of a patient's condition.
• Care for Acute Exacerbations of Chronic Diseases: Stabilizing patients with decompensated chronic illnesses and coordinating appropriate ongoing care or hospital admission.
• Treatment of Acute Infections and Sepsis: Early recognition and aggressive, protocol-driven management of sepsis and septic shock to improve survival rates.

Note: This list outlines key areas of emergency medical care. The services provided by Dr. Van Dewark 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 Vancouver's Fairview neighborhood is situated within a comprehensive hospital facility that serves as a critical access point for urgent medical care in the community. The department is easily accessible via public transit, including proximity to Canada Line Stations, and is well-connected through TransLink services such as SkyTrain (Expo, Millennium, and Canada Lines), buses, SeaBus, and West Coast Express (Waterfront). The hospital provides ample parking, with designated spots for emergency access, and clear signage directs patients to ER drop-off zones and parking facilities. The department operates around the clock, ensuring timely care for all urgent medical needs and is integrated with a full range of hospital services to support complex patient cases. The facility is fully accessible to all patients, reflecting its commitment to inclusive, patient-centered care.

What is the primary role of an Emergency Room Doctor like Dr. Van Dewark?

An Emergency Room Doctor, such as Dr. Van Dewark, 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. Van Dewark 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.

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. Van Dewark 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.

Will my family doctor be informed about my visit to the ER with Dr. Van Dewark?

Yes, it is standard practice for the Emergency Room, including when you are seen by Dr. Van Dewark, to send a detailed summary of your ER visit to your designated family doctor, provided you share their contact information during registration. This report typically includes the reason for your visit, significant findings, any treatments administered, and recommendations for follow-up. This ensures continuity of care and keeps your family doctor informed about important changes in your health status. Following up with your family doctor after an ER visit is usually recommended.

What is the role of the triage nurse when I arrive at the ER?

When you arrive at the Emergency Room, a specially trained triage nurse will be one of the first healthcare professionals you see. Their role is to quickly assess the urgency of your medical condition based on your symptoms, vital signs, and a brief history. This assessment helps determine your priority for treatment relative to other patients. The triage nurse ensures that the most critically ill or injured patients are seen by an ER doctor like Dr. Van Dewark as quickly as possible. They may also initiate some basic tests or interventions while you wait.

When should I go to the Emergency Room (ER) where Dr. Van Dewark works, versus seeing my family doctor or going to a walk-in clinic?

You should visit the ER for conditions that you believe could be life-threatening, limb-threatening, or could cause serious harm if not treated quickly. This includes symptoms like sudden severe pain (especially chest, abdominal, or head), difficulty breathing, suspected broken bones from a significant injury, uncontrolled bleeding, sudden changes in vision or neurological function, or if you've been advised to go by another healthcare provider. For less urgent concerns like mild colds, chronic pain management, or routine follow-ups, your family physician or a local urgent care/walk-in clinic is the better choice. ERs prioritize the most critical patients, meaning wait times for non-urgent issues can be considerable. The team, including Dr. Van Dewark, is focused on providing immediate care for emergencies.

What should I bring with me if I need to go to the Emergency Room where Dr. Van Dewark works?

To help Dr. Van Dewark and the ER staff provide the best care, please bring your government-issued health card. A list of all medications you take, including prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements, is also vital. Knowing your allergies and any chronic health conditions or previous major surgeries will also help the team. If you regularly see other specialists, their contact information might also be useful.

When should I see Dr. Van Dewark in the ER versus my family doctor for a health issue?

The Emergency Room, where Dr. Van Dewark practices, is designed for urgent and emergency situations—conditions that require immediate medical intervention to prevent serious harm or death. Your family doctor, on the other hand, provides comprehensive primary care, including treatment for common illnesses, management of long-term health conditions, immunizations, and preventative screening. For problems that are not immediate emergencies, your family doctor can provide more personalized and continuous care. If you have a non-urgent issue, the ER may involve a long wait.

899 12TH Ave W, Vancouver General Hospital, Dept. Emergency Medicine
Vancouver, BC V5Z 1M9

Hospital Main Line: (604) 875-4111

The hospital Emergency Department is fully accessible to all patients.

Dr. Van Dewark 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. Van Dewark or the on-duty emergency team.

Verify Dr. Van Dewark's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/359574/Van%20Dewark%2CKenneth