Dr. Kevin Neil Johnson – Emergency Room Doctor | Calgary, AB

Dr. Kevin Neil Johnson is an experienced Emergency Physician (CCFP-EM), committed to delivering high-quality acute medical care to patients presenting to the Emergency Department. Practicing at the Emergency Department in Calgary, AB, he is a key member of the frontline medical team serving the community. He adheres to the standards and guidelines set forth by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA). Dr. Johnson is skilled in the rapid assessment, diagnosis, and stabilization of a broad spectrum of urgent and emergent medical, surgical, and traumatic conditions in patients of all ages. This includes managing time-sensitive situations, performing necessary emergency procedures, and coordinating care effectively within the fast-paced ER environment. The Emergency Department operates 24/7 to provide care for urgent and life-threatening conditions. Patients are seen based on the severity of their condition, as determined by a triage process.

He graduated with a Doctor of Medicine (MD) from Queen's University in 1983 and has completed extensive postgraduate training in emergency medicine. Dr. Johnson holds the specialty certification as an Emergency Physician (CCFP-EM), which qualifies him to practice in Alberta. His certifications include comprehensive training in emergency procedures, trauma management, and critical care, ensuring he is well-equipped to handle complex cases in the emergency setting.

Dr. Johnson's professional philosophy emphasizes rapid and accurate assessment in critical situations, providing compassionate care under pressure, and ensuring patient safety at all times. He values effective teamwork and communication within the multidisciplinary ER team, adheres strictly to evidence-based emergency medicine protocols, and advocates for patient-centered care. His dedication to community health in Calgary is reflected in his commitment to delivering timely, high-quality emergency services in English, ensuring that every patient receives the best possible care in urgent circumstances.

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

Trauma and Musculoskeletal Injuries

Dr. Johnson manages employing evidence-based approaches to treat musculoskeletal trauma and facilitate appropriate follow-up.

• 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).
• Minor and Major Lacerations, Abrasions, and Burns: Meticulous cleaning, assessment of depth and contamination, and appropriate repair of skin wounds, including suturing, stapling, or application of tissue adhesives.
• Soft Tissue Injuries (e.g., Contusions, Hematomas, Sprains): Educating patients on expected recovery times and rehabilitation strategies.

Acute Cardiovascular Conditions

Dr. Johnson manages encompassing life-threatening heart and circulatory problems frequently encountered and managed within the emergency department setting.

• Acute Heart Failure Exacerbation: Identifying and treating precipitating factors for heart failure decompensation.
• Aortic Dissection / Aneurysm (Suspected): Rapid diagnostic workup, often involving CT angiography, for patients with symptoms suggestive of life-threatening aortic conditions such as dissection or rupture.
• 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.

Acute Respiratory Conditions

Dr. Johnson 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.
• COPD Exacerbation: Optimizing outpatient COPD management and providing smoking cessation advice to prevent future exacerbations.
• 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.

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.

• Treatment of Acute Infections and Sepsis: Initiation of empiric and targeted antibiotic therapy for suspected or confirmed severe infections based on clinical presentation and local epidemiology.
• 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.
• Management of Acute Pain and Symptom Relief: Prompt and effective symptom control for distressing conditions such as severe nausea, vomiting, acute shortness of breath, or systemic allergic reactions.
• Care for Acute Exacerbations of Chronic Diseases: Managing acute flare-ups of chronic conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), congestive heart failure, diabetes (e.g., DKA, HHS), or sickle cell crisis.
• Diagnosis of Life-Threatening Emergencies: Swift and accurate diagnosis of critical pathologies to facilitate immediate and appropriate therapeutic measures.

Note: This list outlines key areas of emergency medical care. The services provided by Dr. Johnson 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 Alberta (CPSA) 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 Calgary's SW: Haysboro, Kingsland, Kelvin Grove neighbourhood serves as a critical access point for urgent medical care within the community. Located conveniently near Inglewood Access, the department is accessible via Calgary Transit (CTrain LRT, Bus, BRT), with clear signage guiding patients to ER drop-off points and parking facilities. The hospital's emergency area is fully accessible to all patients, with designated parking spots for emergency access. The facility functions as a high-acuity care environment, equipped to handle a wide range of urgent medical conditions, and is integrated with comprehensive hospital services to provide seamless patient care. Hospital parking is available, with dedicated spots for emergency access, and visitors are advised to follow hospital signage for ER patient drop-off and parking. The ER operates 24/7 to serve the community's urgent medical needs, providing swift assessment and treatment for those experiencing life-threatening or urgent health issues.

When should I go to the Emergency Room (ER) where Dr. Johnson 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. Johnson 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 is the primary role of an Emergency Room Doctor like Dr. Johnson?

Dr. Johnson, as a an Emergency Physician with certification from the College of Family Physicians of Canada in Emergency Medicine, skilled in managing urgent medical conditions., specializes in emergency medicine. This field focuses on the immediate decision-making and action necessary to prevent death or further disability both in the pre-hospital setting (by directing emergency medical services) and in the emergency department. Their primary focus is on diagnosing undifferentiated acute conditions, resuscitating and stabilizing patients who are critically ill or injured, providing pain relief and symptom control, and coordinating comprehensive care for a diverse patient population presenting with urgent medical needs.

Why are wait times in the Emergency Room sometimes long?

Emergency departments, including the one where Dr. Johnson practices, utilize a triage system. This means patients are not seen on a first-come, first-served basis, but rather based on the severity and urgency of their medical condition. Patients with life-threatening injuries or illnesses (like heart attacks, strokes, or major trauma) are always prioritized and seen first. This can result in longer wait times for those with less urgent conditions, especially during peak hours or when the ER is managing multiple critically ill patients. The entire ER team, including Dr. Johnson, works diligently to provide care to everyone as quickly and safely as possible.

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

When coming to the Emergency Room, please ensure you have your health insurance card (e.g., OHIP, AHCIP, MSP, RAMQ card). It's also extremely beneficial for Dr. Johnson and the medical team if you can provide an accurate list of all medications you are currently taking (including over-the-counter drugs and supplements), a list of any allergies you have, and details of any important past medical conditions or surgeries. If you are accompanying someone else, try to have this information for them.

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

The Emergency Room, where Dr. Johnson 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.

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. Johnson, 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.

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

Yes, it is standard practice for the Emergency Room, including when you are seen by Dr. Johnson, 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.

7007 14 St SW
Calgary, AB T2V 1P9

Hospital Main Line: (403) 943-7000

The hospital Emergency Department is fully accessible to all patients.

Dr. Johnson is a licensed Emergency Physician (CCFP-EM) regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) under the Health Professions Act in AB. 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. Johnson or the on-duty emergency team.

Verify Dr. Johnson's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA): https://search.cpsa.ca/PhysicianProfile?e=eb4227a7-95a4-4361-a50b-db0a5b70e63d&i=701