Dr. Laurie Ann Baker – Emergency Room Doctor | Calgary, AB

Dr. Laurie Ann Baker 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, she is a key member of the frontline medical team serving the community. Dr. Baker adheres to the standards and guidelines set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA). She 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.

Dr. Baker graduated with her Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree from McMaster University in 2000. She has completed extensive post-graduate training and holds the necessary certifications to practice as an Emergency Physician (CCFP-EM) in Alberta. Her certifications include certification from the College of Family Physicians of Canada in Emergency Medicine, demonstrating her expertise in managing urgent medical conditions efficiently and safely.

Her professional philosophy centers on providing rapid and accurate assessment in critical situations, delivering compassionate care under pressure, and fostering effective teamwork within the multidisciplinary ER team. Dr. Baker is committed to adhering to evidence-based emergency medicine protocols, prioritizing patient safety, and advocating for patient needs in acute settings. She delivers emergency care primarily in English and is dedicated to serving the community of Calgary with integrity and professionalism.

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

• Multiple Trauma / Polytrauma (Initial Stabilization and Resuscitation): Initiating damage control resuscitation principles, including hemorrhage control, blood product administration, and prevention of hypothermia and coagulopathy.
• 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.

Acute Cardiovascular Conditions

Dr. Baker manages focusing on the rapid stabilization of patients experiencing acute cardiac distress or vascular compromise.

• Cardiac Arrhythmias (e.g., Atrial Fibrillation with Rapid Response, Ventricular Tachycardia): Identifying and treating potential underlying causes or triggers of acute cardiac rhythm disturbances, such as electrolyte imbalances or ischemia.
• 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 Respiratory Conditions

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

• Acute Shortness of Breath (Dyspnea): Comprehensive evaluation of patients presenting with sudden or severe difficulty breathing to rapidly determine the underlying physiological cause.
• Pneumonia (Severe or Complicated): Assessing need for hospitalization versus outpatient management based on severity scores.
• 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.

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: Performing source control measures for infections where appropriate in the ER setting, such as incision and drainage of abscesses.
• Diagnostic Workup for Acute Conditions: Employing rapid diagnostic tools and protocols to efficiently evaluate patients with urgent health concerns.
• Care for Acute Exacerbations of Chronic Diseases: Stabilizing patients with decompensated chronic illnesses and coordinating appropriate ongoing care or hospital admission.
• Diagnosis of Life-Threatening Emergencies: Applying advanced diagnostic reasoning to quickly pinpoint life-threatening conditions amidst complex clinical pictures.
• Rapid Triage and Initial Medical Assessment: Initial history taking, focused physical examination, and vital signs assessment for emergent and urgent conditions upon arrival.
• Resuscitation and Stabilization of Critically Ill Patients: Leading and coordinating resuscitation efforts for patients in cardiac arrest, shock, or severe respiratory distress.

Note: This list outlines key areas of emergency medical care. The services provided by Dr. Baker 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 neighborhood, including Haysboro, Kingsland, and Kelvin Grove, provides critical urgent care services within a modern, fully accessible facility. Conveniently situated near Inglewood Access and easily accessible via Calgary Transit (CTrain LRT, Bus, BRT), the hospital's Emergency Department offers seamless access for patients across the community. Dedicated parking spots are available for emergency access, with clear hospital signage guiding ER patient drop-off and parking. This facility serves as a vital point of entry for urgent medical care, integrated with comprehensive hospital services to meet the diverse needs of the local population.

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

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. Baker 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.

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

The Emergency Room is for serious or life-threatening medical conditions that require immediate attention. Examples include: severe chest pain or pressure, difficulty breathing or shortness of breath, signs of a stroke (like sudden weakness or numbness, trouble speaking), major injuries or uncontrolled bleeding, severe allergic reactions, high fever with confusion, or loss of consciousness. For non-urgent issues, minor illnesses, medication refills, or routine check-ups, your family doctor or a walk-in clinic is usually more appropriate. If you're unsure about the severity of your condition, it's often best to err on the side of caution and seek emergency care or call your provincial telehealth line for advice. Dr. Baker and the ER team are there for true emergencies.

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

Dr. Baker 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.

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

Yes, it is standard practice for the Emergency Room, including when you are seen by Dr. Baker, 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) 943-3449

The hospital Emergency Department is fully accessible to all patients.

Dr. Baker 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. Baker or the on-duty emergency team.

Verify Dr. Baker's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA): https://search.cpsa.ca/PhysicianProfile?e=8d27feae-5b73-4816-9a07-b1add48ca9e2&i=129