Dr. Shannon Elizabeth Sharifi – Anesthesiologist | North Bay, ON

Dr. Shannon Elizabeth Sharifi, a respected Anesthesiologist, is committed to the highest standards of perioperative care and pain management. Practicing primarily at facilities in North Bay, ON, she contributes to the surgical and procedural teams, ensuring that patient safety and comfort are prioritized throughout all stages of anesthesia care. Her practice adheres strictly to the guidelines and standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), reflecting her dedication to professional excellence and patient well-being.

Dr. Sharifi obtained her Medical Degree from McMaster University in 2007. She has been practicing as a specialist in Anesthesiology for over 12 years, since 2012. She is certified by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, demonstrating her advanced training and expertise in the field of anesthesiology. Her ongoing commitment to professional development ensures she remains current with the latest practices and innovations in anesthesia and perioperative medicine.

With a professional and clinical approach, Dr. Sharifi emphasizes patient safety and individualized care plans tailored to each patient's needs. She speaks English fluently and is dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based anesthesia services in North Bay, Ontario, fostering a safe and supportive environment for all her patients.

• Management of Anesthetic Emergencies: Rapid diagnosis and treatment of critical events or complications that may arise during anesthesia.
• Procedural Sedation (Outside OR): Administering sedation and monitoring for procedures performed outside the main operating rooms, such as in endoscopy suites or radiology.
• Anesthesia for Outpatient/Ambulatory Surgery: Providing safe and effective anesthesia tailored for procedures where patients are expected to go home the same day.
• 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.

Note: This list outlines typical areas of anesthetic practice. The specific anesthetic plan for your procedure will be determined by Dr. Sharifi (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 Ontario (CPSO).

Dr. Sharifi's practice is primarily based at the Brantford General Hospital, located in the Downtown North Bay, Central neighborhood of North Bay. The hospital is conveniently situated near the Capitol Centre (Theatre) and accessible via North Bay Transit. The facility is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility.

How is payment handled for anesthesia care with Dr. Sharifi? Is it covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP)?

In ON, medically necessary anesthesia services provided by specialists like Dr. Sharifi during provincially insured surgical or medical procedures are typically covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP). 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 Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) for specific circumstances.

Can I directly request Dr. Sharifi 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. Sharifi from the team covering your procedure.

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.

How will my pain be managed after the procedure?

Effective pain management is a priority. Depending on the procedure, Dr. Sharifi 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 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. Sharifi 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.

Brantford General Hospital
50 College Drive
North Bay, ON P1B 8G5

Phone: (705) 474-8600

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Sharifi is a licensed physician regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) under the Medicine Act, 1991 in ON. 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 Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Sharifi-Shannon-Elizabeth/0242137-86369