Cataract surgery services in Kingston

At Kingston Health Sciences Centre (KHSC), we understand the importance of clear vision in maintaining independence and quality of life. With the growing demand for cataract surgery in our region, we collaborate with Focus Eye Centre (FEC) to ensure timely access to this vital service for our community.

This collaboration allows us to address the growing patient demand, ensuring that patients receive the care they need without unnecessary delays. Together, we've established a process that prioritizes safe and timely care.

“The service is a well-oiled machine. Staff were friendly, professional and did a wonderful job. They got me in quickly and I had both of my eyes done and I am pleased as punch. I am an avid reader and love doing crossword puzzles, but the biggest impact on my life is the ability to drive. Believe me when I say this service has made a huge difference in my life and I am grateful for the outstanding care provided.” - Feedback from a cataract surgery patient

How we’re improving access to care

Since our work together began in 2022, approximately 3,000 patients in our region have seen their eyesight and independence improve.  Without this collaboration, many of those patients would still be waiting for their surgery.

By working with FEC to provide less-complex surgical care, KHSC can focus on more complex eye surgeries, as well as other types of urgent surgeries such as cardiac, orthopedic, or cancer procedures. This further benefits patients by allowing KHSC to focus on specialized surgeries that are essential for the health and well-being of our community and that only KHSC can provide.

Cost to patients

Whether completed in an operating room at our Hotel Dieu Hospital site, or the FEC facility located on Arlington Park Place, cataract surgery remains a fully funded OHIP procedure. This means that patients have access to this essential service at no cost, regardless of where the surgery is performed.

Patient referrals

All individuals in need of cataract surgery will be first referred to KHSC’s Ophthalmology program. KHSC’s eye care experts will then determine which cases will be performed at Hotel Dieu, and which will be performed at FEC. This ensures efficient use of resources and optimizes wait-times and surgical outcomes.

Improving training and building health care capacity

In addition to improving patient access, our relationship with FEC enhances training opportunities for medical residents. With an aging patient population, it is important that KHSC provides greater access to training, allowing us to equip the next generation of medical providers with the skills needed to deliver high-quality care to patients.

Questions:

If you have questions about your surgery or referral, please don't hesitate to contact our central booking office.

Local: 613-548-2342
Toll-Free: 1-855-851-3490