About
Dr. Zarina Karmali Kassam is a dedicated Anesthesiologist focused on providing safe and effective anesthesia care for surgical and medical procedures. Practicing primarily at facilities in Etobicoke, ON, she contributes to the surgical and procedural teams, ensuring high standards of patient safety and comfort. Dr. Kassam adheres to the professional guidelines established by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), maintaining a commitment to evidence-based practice and continuous quality improvement in her field.
She graduated with a Medical Degree from Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol in 1974, in the United Kingdom. She has been practicing as a specialist in Anesthesiology for over 43 years, since 1981. Dr. Kassam is certified by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, reflecting her extensive training and expertise in anesthesiology.
Her clinical philosophy emphasizes patient safety, effective pain management, and individualized care tailored to each patient's needs. Fluent in English and Gujarati, Dr. Kassam is committed to clear communication and compassionate care for her diverse patient population in Etobicoke.
- Procedural Sedation (Outside OR): Administering sedation and monitoring for procedures performed outside the main operating rooms, such as in endoscopy suites or radiology.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
Note: This list outlines typical areas of anesthetic practice. The specific anesthetic plan for your procedure will be determined by Dr. Kassam (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. Kassam's practice is primarily based at the Prince Edward Family Health Team located in central Etobicoke. The facility is conveniently situated near local points of interest such as the Etobicoke Civic Centre and the Islington Golf Course. It is easily accessible via public transit, including nearby bus stops and subway stations. The facility is wheelchair accessible and designed to accommodate patients with mobility challenges. Parking is available at the facility, providing convenient access for patients arriving by car.
- How is payment handled for anesthesia care with Dr. Kassam? Is it covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP)?
- In ON, medically necessary anesthesia services provided by specialists like Dr. Kassam 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. Kassam 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. Kassam from the team covering your procedure.
- What is the role of an Anesthesiologist?
- An Anesthesiologist is a specialist medical doctor (physician) extensively trained in anesthesiology, critical care medicine, and pain management. They are responsible for developing the anesthesia plan, administering anesthetic drugs, ensuring your safety and vital functions (like breathing, heart rate, blood pressure) are stable during a procedure, managing any medical emergencies that arise, and overseeing your immediate recovery and pain control afterwards.
Prince Edward Family Health Team
150 Sherway Drive
Etobicoke, ON M9C 1A6
Phone: (905) 848-7628
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Kassam 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/Kassam-Zarina-Karmali/0026784-31607