Dr. Serena Shum – Anesthesiologist | Surrey, BC

As a skilled Anesthesiologist, Dr. Serena Shum plays a crucial role in patient safety and comfort during the perioperative period. Practicing primarily at medical facilities in Surrey, BC, she contributes to the surgical and procedural teams with a focus on providing calm and reassuring anesthesia care. She adheres to the highest standards established by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC), ensuring that every patient receives safe and attentive treatment. Dr. Shum’s dedication emphasizes a patient-centered approach, prioritizing comfort and well-being throughout the perioperative journey.

Dr. Shum graduated with a Medical Degree from Queen’s University in 2012 and completed extensive postgraduate training in Anesthesiology. Her certifications include comprehensive training in anesthesia, critical care, and pain management, enabling her to deliver a broad scope of anesthetic services tailored to individual patient needs.

Her clinical philosophy is grounded in a calm and reassuring manner, emphasizing patient safety and comfort in Surrey. Fluent in English, she communicates clearly and compassionately, ensuring patients feel informed and at ease before, during, and after procedures.

• 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.
• Intraoperative Monitoring: Continuous monitoring of vital signs (heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen levels, breathing) and anesthetic depth throughout the procedure to ensure patient safety.
• Airway Management Expertise: Skilled management of the patient's airway, including intubation (placing a breathing tube) when necessary, ensuring adequate oxygenation and ventilation.
• 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.

Note: This list outlines typical areas of anesthetic practice. The specific anesthetic plan for your procedure will be determined by Dr. Shum (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. Shum primarily practices at medical facilities located in the West Newton and Strawberry Hill neighborhoods of Surrey. These facilities are conveniently situated near Surrey Memorial Hospital, providing seamless access for patients requiring surgical or medical procedures. The location is easily accessible via TransLink, including the SkyTrain Expo Line and local bus routes. The facility is wheelchair accessible, ensuring comfort and ease of access for all patients. Parking is available at the facility, offering convenience for those arriving by car.

How is payment handled for anesthesia care with Dr. Shum? Is it covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP)?

In BC, medically necessary anesthesia services provided by specialists like Dr. Shum 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. Shum 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. Shum 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. Shum 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.

What's the difference between an Anesthesiologist and other anesthesia providers?

In Canada, an Anesthesiologist is a medical doctor (MD) with extensive postgraduate specialty training (typically 5+ years after medical school) covering all aspects of anesthesia, critical care, and pain management. They lead the anesthesia care team. Other professionals, like respiratory therapists or specialized nurses, may assist under the direct supervision of the Anesthesiologist.

13750 96 Ave, Surrey Memorial Hospital
Surrey, BC V3V 1Z2

Phone: (604) 581-2211

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Shum 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/345177/Shum%2CSerena