Patient benefits: 
timely cataract surgery

Cataract surgery is one of the most cost effective and life enhancing procedures in Canadian healthcare. Performed early, it restores vision, reduces dependence on long term care, and improves quality of life, while also reducing costs to the public system.

Key benefits of early cataract surgery for patients

  •  Reduced risk of falls and fractures
  •  Improved mental health and reduced social isolation
  •  Maintained independence and mobility
  •  Preservation of cognitive function in older adults
Mature, smiling man in office

Cataract surgery vs. retina injections: 
a cost comparison

Cataract surgery:

  • One time cost: approx. $1,500 per eye (surgeon and facility combined)
  • Long-term vision restoration

Intravitreal injections (retina treatments):

  • Approx. $1,000 per injection
  • Ongoing treatment often required for 8+ years
  • Total lifetime cost for one eye can be 50‑100 times the cost of cataract surgery
mature woman lowering glasses to read newspaper

System-Level Return on Investment (ROI)

  •  Lower long term costs for government healthcare budgets
  •  Decreased demand for chronic care and emergency services
  •  More efficient use of public funds with long term benefits

Conclusion: 
a smart, patient-first investment

Early access to cataract surgery through community surgical facilities benefits everyone: patients, families, and the healthcare system. ACCESS is committed to ensuring Canadians receive timely care that restores independence and reduces the need for more invasive and costly treatments down the line.