Dr. Stefne Verwey – Anesthesiologist | Abbotsford, BC

Dr. Stefne Verwey, a respected Anesthesiologist, is committed to the highest standards of perioperative care and pain management. Practicing primarily at medical facilities in the Abbotsford, BC area, she contributes to the surgical and procedural teams with a focus on patient safety and comfort. Her practice is guided by the standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC), ensuring that every patient receives compassionate and evidence-based care. Subspecialty interests or areas of focus may include specialty practice in anesthesiology, tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual undergoing surgery or medical procedures.

Dr. Verwey graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of the Free State Faculty of Health Sciences in 2008 (South Africa). She completed extensive post-graduate training in Anesthesiology, gaining certification and experience that underpin her expertise. Her training includes comprehensive clinical rotations and assessments, preparing her to manage a wide range of anesthetic needs with skill and precision.

Her clinical philosophy emphasizes a calm and reassuring approach, prioritizing patient safety and comfort throughout all phases of perioperative care. She is dedicated to providing clear communication, ensuring patients feel informed and at ease. Fluent in English, Dr. Verwey is committed to fostering a trusting environment, supporting patients through their surgical journeys in Abbotsford.

• Fluid and Blood Product Management: Administering intravenous fluids and blood products as needed during procedures to maintain hemodynamic stability.
• Airway Management Expertise: Skilled management of the patient's airway, including intubation (placing a breathing tube) when necessary, ensuring adequate oxygenation and ventilation.
• 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.
• 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.

Note: This list outlines typical areas of anesthetic practice. The specific anesthetic plan for your procedure will be determined by Dr. Verwey (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. Verwey primarily practices at medical facilities located in the Central Abbotsford, Mill Lake Area neighborhood. The facilities are conveniently situated near the University of the Fraser Valley (UFV) and the Abbotsford Centre, which hosts entertainment and sports events. Patients can easily access these locations via the Central Fraser Valley Transit System operated by BC Transit. The facilities are wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility, providing ease of access for all patients.

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

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

What if I have allergies or previous bad reactions to anesthesia?

It is absolutely crucial to inform Dr. Verwey during your pre-anesthetic assessment about any known allergies (to medications, latex, food, etc.) and any previous experiences (good or bad) with anesthesia or sedation. This information helps tailor a safe plan and avoid agents you may react to.

Do Anesthesiologists only work in the operating room?

While the OR is central, Anesthesiologists like Dr. Verwey often work in other areas too, including:

• Labour and delivery suites (providing epidurals)
• Intensive Care Units (managing critically ill patients)
• Pre-operative assessment clinics
• Pain clinics (treating chronic pain)
• Procedure rooms (e.g., endoscopy, radiology, cardiology)

Her specific areas of practice will depend on her training and hospital/clinic roles.

Will I definitely meet the Anesthesiologist before my surgery/procedure?

You will always have an anesthesia assessment before your procedure. For major surgeries or complex health issues, this often occurs at a pre-admission clinic days or weeks beforehand. For healthier patients undergoing shorter procedures, the detailed discussion and assessment with Dr. Verwey (or a colleague providing your care that day) may happen just before the procedure starts. In either case, your questions will be answered.

32900 Marshall Rd, Abbotsford Regional Hospital and Cancer Centre
Abbotsford, BC V2S 0C2

Phone: (604) 851-4700

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Verwey 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/377196/Verwey%2CStefne