About
Dr. Michael Anthony Markian Kowbel is a dedicated Anesthesiologist focused on providing safe and effective anesthesia care for surgical and medical procedures. Practicing primarily at medical facilities in Kamloops, BC, he contributes to the surgical and procedural teams, ensuring patient safety and comfort. His practice adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC), with license number 26144. Dr. Kowbel's role encompasses a broad scope of anesthetic services, prioritizing patient well-being during every phase of care.
Dr. Kowbel graduated with a Doctor of Medicine (MD) from the University of Saskatchewan in 1986 and completed extensive postgraduate training in Anesthesiology. His certifications include comprehensive postgraduate programs in anesthesiology, equipping him with the expertise needed for complex anesthetic management and emergency response. His training underscores his commitment to maintaining current, evidence-based practices in anesthesiology.
With a clear and educational approach, Dr. Kowbel is committed to ensuring patient safety and comfort throughout the perioperative period in Kamloops. He communicates effectively in English and values patient education and involvement in their care. His clinical philosophy emphasizes meticulous attention to detail, safety, and compassionate care tailored to each individual's needs.
- 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.
- Intraoperative Monitoring: Continuous monitoring of vital signs (heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen levels, breathing) and anesthetic depth throughout the procedure to ensure patient safety.
- Acute Postoperative Pain Management: Implementing strategies to manage pain immediately after surgery, utilizing multimodal approaches like regional blocks, IV medications, or patient-controlled analgesia (PCA).
- Fluid and Blood Product Management: Administering intravenous fluids and blood products as needed during procedures to maintain hemodynamic stability.
- Management of Anesthetic Emergencies: Rapid diagnosis and treatment of critical events or complications that may arise during anesthesia.
Note: This list outlines typical areas of anesthetic practice. The specific anesthetic plan for your procedure will be determined by Dr. Kowbel (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 British Columbia (CPSBC).
Dr. Kowbel primarily practices at medical facilities located in the Downtown Kamloops and South Shore East (Valleyview) neighborhoods. His location offers convenient access for patients from the Kamloops area, with proximity to Thompson Rivers University (TRU). Patients can reach the facilities easily via the Kamloops Transit System operated by BC Transit. The facility is wheelchair accessible and accommodates patients with mobility needs. Parking is available at the facility for those arriving by vehicle, ensuring ease of access for all patients.
- How is payment handled for anesthesia care with Dr. Kowbel? Is it covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP)?
- In BC, medically necessary anesthesia services provided by specialists like Dr. Kowbel during provincially insured surgical or medical procedures are typically covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP). 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 Medical Services Plan (MSP) for specific circumstances.
- Can I directly request Dr. Kowbel 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. Kowbel from the team covering your procedure.
- How will my pain be managed after the procedure?
- Effective pain management is a priority. Depending on the procedure, Dr. Kowbel may use strategies like regional nerve blocks placed before or during surgery for prolonged numbness, patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) pumps, epidural infusions, or a combination of different types of pain medications (multimodal analgesia). The goal is to keep you comfortable to aid recovery and mobility. This plan is often coordinated with the surgical team.
- Will I definitely meet the Anesthesiologist before my surgery/procedure?
- You will always have an anesthesia assessment before your procedure. For major surgeries or complex health issues, this often occurs at a pre-admission clinic days or weeks beforehand. For healthier patients undergoing shorter procedures, the detailed discussion and assessment with Dr. Kowbel (or a colleague providing your care that day) may happen just before the procedure starts. In either case, your questions will be answered.
- 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.
311 Columbia St, Royal Inland Hospital
Kamloops, BC V2C 2T1
Phone: (250) 314-2620
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Kowbel is a licensed physician regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) under the Health Professions Act in BC. 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 British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/324797/Kowbel%2CMichael