Dr. Simon Robert Massey – Anesthesiologist | Vancouver, BC

Dr. Simon Robert Massey, a respected Anesthesiologist, is committed to the highest standards of perioperative care and pain management. Practicing primarily at medical facilities in Vancouver, BC, he contributes to the surgical and procedural teams, ensuring patient safety and comfort throughout the perioperative process. Dr. Massey adheres strictly to the practice standards established by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC). His focus is on providing evidence-based, individualized anesthetic care tailored to each patient's needs, supporting optimal surgical outcomes.

He graduated with a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MB BCh) from the University of Wales in 1984 and completed extensive postgraduate training in Anesthesiology. Dr. Massey holds key certifications in anesthesia practice, including certification from recognized Canadian or international anesthesia boards, ensuring his competence in the latest techniques and safety protocols.

Dr. Massey’s clinical philosophy emphasizes a patient-centered, evidence-based approach to anesthesia. He is dedicated to ensuring the highest level of patient safety and comfort during all procedures in Vancouver. Fluent in English, he communicates clearly and compassionately, providing patients with thorough information and reassurance throughout their perioperative journey.

• 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.
• 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.
• Management of Anesthetic Emergencies: Rapid diagnosis and treatment of critical events or complications that may arise during anesthesia.
• Anesthesia for Outpatient/Ambulatory Surgery: Providing safe and effective anesthesia tailored for procedures where patients are expected to go home the same day.
• 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).

Note: This list outlines typical areas of anesthetic practice. The specific anesthetic plan for your procedure will be determined by Dr. Massey (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. Massey's practice is primarily based at medical facilities located in the Shaughnessy, Arbutus Ridge South neighborhood of Vancouver. These facilities are conveniently situated near popular shopping and dining districts, as well as cultural landmarks such as the Museum of Vancouver and the H.R. MacMillan Space Centre at Vanier Park. Patients can access the location via TransLink's SkyTrain lines (Expo, Millennium, Canada Lines), bus services, SeaBus, and West Coast Express at Waterfront Station. The facility is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility.

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

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

4480 Oak St, BC Women's & Children's Health Centre, Dept of Anesthesia
Vancouver, BC V6H 3V4

Phone: (604) 875-2158

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Massey 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/331535/Massey%2CSimon