Dr. Michael Vargo – Anesthesiologist | Edmonton, AB

Dr. Michael Vargo, a respected Anesthesiologist, is committed to the highest standards of perioperative care and pain management. Practicing primarily at medical facilities in Edmonton, AB, he contributes to the surgical and procedural teams, ensuring patient safety and comfort during all stages of anesthesia. His practice adheres strictly to the standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA), with license number 028206, reflecting his compliance with provincial regulatory requirements.

Dr. Vargo graduated with a Doctor of Medicine (MD) from the University of Saskatchewan in 2012 and has completed extensive post-graduate training in Anesthesiology. His education and certification process included rigorous residency programs and assessments, equipping him with comprehensive expertise in perioperative medicine and pain control techniques.

His clinical philosophy centers on professionalism and clinical excellence, with a strong focus on patient safety in the Edmonton region. Dr. Vargo communicates fluently in English and is dedicated to providing evidence-based, patient-centered anesthetic care tailored to individual needs and procedural requirements.

• Fluid and Blood Product Management: Administering intravenous fluids and blood products as needed during procedures to maintain hemodynamic stability.
• 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.
• Procedural Sedation (Outside OR): Administering sedation and monitoring for procedures performed outside the main operating rooms, such as in endoscopy suites or radiology.
• Airway Management Expertise: Skilled management of the patient's airway, including intubation (placing a breathing tube) when necessary, ensuring adequate oxygenation and ventilation.
• Regional Anesthesia Techniques: Numbing specific body regions using targeted nerve blocks (e.g., spinal, epidural, peripheral nerve blocks) for surgery or pain control, potentially allowing the patient to remain awake or sedated.

Note: This list outlines typical areas of anesthetic practice. The specific anesthetic plan for your procedure will be determined by Dr. Vargo (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. Vargo primarily practices at medical facilities located in the Downtown East, Boyle Street, and Riverdale neighborhoods of Edmonton. The practice is conveniently situated near the Downtown Core and the Citadel Theatre, making it accessible for patients in the city. Patients can reach the facility via Edmonton Transit Service (ETS), including LRT and bus routes. The facility is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility.

How is payment handled for anesthesia care with Dr. Vargo? Is it covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP)?

In AB, medically necessary anesthesia services provided by specialists like Dr. Vargo 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. Vargo 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. Vargo from the team covering your procedure.

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.

10240 Kingsway NW, 3003 DTC
Edmonton, AB T5H 3V9

Phone: (780) 735-4111

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Vargo 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=3e583d6a-5ca6-48ca-b1ea-edd66d820b81&i=1493