About
As a skilled Anesthesiologist, Dr. Michael B. Chong plays a crucial role in patient safety and comfort during the perioperative period. Practicing primarily at facilities in Lethbridge, AB, he contributes to the surgical and procedural teams by providing comprehensive care in Anesthesiology. His practice adheres to the standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA), ensuring that patients receive safe and effective anesthesia services tailored to their individual needs.
Dr. Chong graduated with a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) in 1986 from England and has completed extensive postgraduate training in Anesthesiology. He holds certifications including the Licentiate of the Medical Council of Canada (LMCC) and the Fellowship of the Royal College of Physicians of Canada (FRCPC). These credentials attest to his expertise and commitment to maintaining high standards in his specialty.
His clinical philosophy is centered on clear and educational communication, emphasizing patient safety and comfort in every interaction. Dr. Chong is dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based anesthesia care in Lethbridge. He speaks English fluently and prioritizes informing patients about their anesthesia options and procedures to foster trust and understanding.
- Procedural Sedation (Outside OR): Administering sedation and monitoring for procedures performed outside the main operating rooms, such as in endoscopy suites or radiology.
- 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.
- Pre-Anesthetic Assessment and Consultation: Thorough evaluation of patient health, medical history, medications, and surgical/procedural plan to create the safest and most effective anesthesia plan.
- Anesthesia for Outpatient/Ambulatory Surgery: Providing safe and effective anesthesia tailored for procedures where patients are expected to go home the same day.
- 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.
Note: This list outlines typical areas of anesthetic practice. The specific anesthetic plan for your procedure will be determined by Dr. Chong (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. Chong practices primarily at the Michael Chong Clinic Lethbridge, located in the Downtown Lethbridge area within the South Lethbridge East neighborhood. The clinic provides convenient access for residents, connecting easily to North/South routes and Lethbridge College. The facility is accessible via Lethbridge Transit, making it convenient for patients to attend appointments. The clinic is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility.
- How is payment handled for anesthesia care with Dr. Chong? Is it covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP)?
- In AB, medically necessary anesthesia services provided by specialists like Dr. Chong 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. Chong 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. Chong from the team covering your procedure.
- What if I have allergies or previous bad reactions to anesthesia?
- It is absolutely crucial to inform Dr. Chong during your pre-anesthetic assessment about any known allergies (to medications, latex, food, etc.) and any previous experiences (good or bad) with anesthesia or sedation. This information helps tailor a safe plan and avoid agents you may react to.
- 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. Chong (or a colleague providing your care that day) may happen just before the procedure starts. In either case, your questions will be answered.
Michael Chong Clinic Lethbridge
960 19 St S, Chinook Regional Hospital
Lethbridge, AB T1J 1W5
Phone: (403) 388-6111
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Chong 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=56828413-250e-450e-8a46-3595ad289943&i=290