About
As a skilled Anesthesiologist, Dr. Mark Ian Stallwood plays a crucial role in patient safety and comfort during the perioperative period. Practicing primarily at facilities in Thunder Bay, ON, he contributes to the surgical and procedural teams, ensuring high standards of care in accordance with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO). Dr. Stallwood provides comprehensive care in Anesthesiology, focusing on individualized anesthetic plans tailored to each patient's specific health needs and procedural requirements.
Dr. Stallwood graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of Liverpool School of Medicine in 1993 (United Kingdom). He has been practicing as a specialist in Anesthesiology for over 12 years, since 2012. He is certified by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, demonstrating his expertise and commitment to maintaining the highest standards in his specialty.
His clinical philosophy emphasizes clear and educational communication, patient safety, and comfort. Dr. Stallwood is dedicated to providing safe anesthesia care in Thunder Bay, ensuring that patients are well-informed about their anesthetic options. He speaks English fluently, facilitating effective communication with his patients and healthcare colleagues.
- 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.
- 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.
- Management of Anesthetic Emergencies: Rapid diagnosis and treatment of critical events or complications that may arise during anesthesia.
- Procedural Sedation (Outside OR): Administering sedation and monitoring for procedures performed outside the main operating rooms, such as in endoscopy suites or radiology.
Note: This list outlines typical areas of anesthetic practice. The specific anesthetic plan for your procedure will be determined by Dr. Stallwood (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 Ontario (CPSO).
Dr. Stallwood's practice is primarily based at Bruyère Health Saint-Vincent Hospital in the Port Arthur Central (Downtown North Core, Waterfront area) neighborhood of Thunder Bay. The hospital is conveniently located near Marina Park and Prince Arthur's Landing, making it accessible for patients visiting the area. The facility is well served by Thunder Bay Transit, providing easy access via public transportation. The hospital is wheelchair accessible, ensuring barrier-free access for all patients. Parking is available at the facility, offering convenient options for visitors and patients attending appointments or procedures.
- How is payment handled for anesthesia care with Dr. Stallwood? Is it covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP)?
- In ON, medically necessary anesthesia services provided by specialists like Dr. Stallwood during provincially insured surgical or medical procedures are typically covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP). 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 Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) for specific circumstances.
- Can I directly request Dr. Stallwood 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. Stallwood 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 the main types of anesthesia you might use?
- Dr. Stallwood 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.
- 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.
Bruyère Health Saint-Vincent Hospital
980 Oliver Road, Complex Continuing Care Bruyere Continuing Care
Thunder Bay, ON P7B 6V4
Phone: (807) 684-6000
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Stallwood is a licensed physician regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) under the Medicine Act, 1991 in ON. 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 Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Stallwood-Mark-Ian/0262809-93038