About
Dr. Richard Anthony Henry is a dedicated Anesthesiologist focused on providing safe and effective anesthesia care for surgical and medical procedures. Practicing primarily at medical facilities in Trail, BC, he contributes to the surgical and procedural teams with a strong emphasis on patient safety and comfort. His practice adheres strictly to the standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC). Subspecialty interests or areas of focus may include specialty practice in anesthesiology, ensuring comprehensive perioperative care tailored to individual patient needs.
Dr. Henry graduated with a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MB ChB) from the University of Cape Town in 1981, South Africa. He completed extensive postgraduate training in Anesthesiology, earning certifications that attest to his expertise. His training included rigorous clinical rotations, advanced anesthesia techniques, and patient safety protocols, positioning him as a trusted provider in the region.
His clinical philosophy is rooted in evidence-based practice and continuous quality improvement. Dr. Henry is committed to maintaining the highest standards of patient safety and comfort during all procedures. He communicates fluently in English and ensures that patients are well-informed about their anesthesia options and safety measures before procedures.
- 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).
- Anesthesia for Outpatient/Ambulatory Surgery: Providing safe and effective anesthesia tailored for procedures where patients are expected to go home the same day.
- Management of Anesthetic Emergencies: Rapid diagnosis and treatment of critical events or complications that may arise during anesthesia.
- 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.
Note: This list outlines typical areas of anesthetic practice. The specific anesthetic plan for your procedure will be determined by Dr. Henry (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. Henry primarily practices at medical facilities located in the central Trail area of Trail, BC. These facilities are situated near local points of interest such as the Columbia Gardens and the Trail Museum and Historical Society. Accessibility is convenient via public transit routes serving Trail, making it accessible for most patients. The facility is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility.
- How is payment handled for anesthesia care with Dr. Henry? Is it covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP)?
- In BC, medically necessary anesthesia services provided by specialists like Dr. Henry 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. Henry 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. Henry 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. Henry 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.
- What are the main types of anesthesia you might use?
- Dr. Henry 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.
- 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.
1200 Hospital Bench, Kootenay Boundary Regional Hospital
Trail, BC V1R 4M1
Phone: (250) 368-3311
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Henry 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/304419/Henry%2CRichard