About
Dr. Matthew Kimber Primrose is a dedicated Anesthesiologist focused on providing safe and effective anesthesia care for surgical and medical procedures. Practicing primarily at medical facilities in Lethbridge, AB, he contributes to the surgical and procedural teams. His practice adheres strictly to the standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA). Dr. Primrose provides comprehensive care in Anesthesiology, ensuring patient safety and comfort throughout the perioperative period.
He graduated with a Doctor of Medicine (MD) from the University of Alberta in 2013 and completed extensive post-graduate training in Anesthesiology. His certifications include successful completion of specialized residency programs and ongoing professional development aligned with provincial and national standards, ensuring up-to-date practices in anesthetic care.
Dr. Primrose's clinical philosophy is grounded in an evidence-based and informative approach, prioritizing patient safety in all aspects of anesthesia management in Lethbridge. He communicates fluently in English and is committed to providing personalized, safe, and effective anesthetic care tailored to each patient's needs.
- Airway Management Expertise: Skilled management of the patient's airway, including intubation (placing a breathing tube) when necessary, ensuring adequate oxygenation and ventilation.
- 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.
- 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.
- Fluid and Blood Product Management: Administering intravenous fluids and blood products as needed during procedures to maintain hemodynamic stability.
- Intraoperative Monitoring: Continuous monitoring of vital signs (heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen levels, breathing) and anesthetic depth throughout the procedure to ensure patient safety.
Note: This list outlines typical areas of anesthetic practice. The specific anesthetic plan for your procedure will be determined by Dr. Primrose (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 Alberta (CPSA).
Dr. Primrose primarily practices at medical facilities located in the Downtown Lethbridge area, near the South Lethbridge East neighborhood of Lethbridge. The location offers proximity to Nicholas Sheran Park, providing a convenient environment for patients. Accessibility is facilitated by Lethbridge Transit, making it easy to reach the facility via public transportation. The facility is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility.
- How is payment handled for anesthesia care with Dr. Primrose? Is it covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP)?
- In AB, medically necessary anesthesia services provided by specialists like Dr. Primrose during provincially insured surgical or medical procedures are typically covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP). 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 Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) for specific circumstances.
- Can I directly request Dr. Primrose 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. Primrose from the team covering your procedure.
- 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. Primrose 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.
- How do my existing health conditions (e.g., heart problems, asthma, sleep apnea) affect anesthesia?
- Existing health conditions are a key part of the pre-anesthetic assessment. Dr. Primrose needs to know about all conditions like heart disease, lung problems (asthma, COPD, sleep apnea), diabetes, kidney disease, etc. This information allows he to choose the safest anesthetic drugs and techniques, anticipate potential issues, and optimize monitoring during your procedure. For example, adjustments might be made for sleep apnea or specific cardiac monitoring used for heart conditions.
- Why is it important to follow fasting instructions?
- Fasting (not eating or drinking) before anesthesia is critical for your safety. If there is food or liquid in your stomach during anesthesia, it could potentially come up into your throat and lungs (aspiration), which can cause serious lung complications. Following the specific fasting times given to you significantly reduces this risk.
960 19 St S
Lethbridge, AB T1J 1W5
Phone: (403) 388-6111
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Primrose is a licensed physician regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) under the Health Professions Act in AB. 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 Alberta (CPSA): https://search.cpsa.ca/PhysicianProfile?e=05c2f3e4-f522-4a74-ab78-579634ab4798&i=1177