Collaboration and innovation
ACCESS: Association of Canadian Centres of Eye Surgery and Standards.
ACCESS is a national network of ophthalmologists and surgical facilities united by a shared commitment to advancing excellence and accessibility in surgical eye care across Canada. We maintain the highest standards of care in our accredited facilities for both insured and uninsured services. Through collaboration, innovation, and continuous professional development, ACCESS enhances patient outcomes and strengthens Canada’s healthcare system.
Our members include top-tier ophthalmologists and medical directors of purpose-built, accredited day surgery centres—all dedicated to providing timely, effective, and equitable vision care for Canadians.
ACCESS works synergistically with healthcare stakeholders, including hospitals, regional and provincial health authorities, and academic institutions, to support national vision health policy and contribute meaningfully to the advancement of ophthalmology. Together, we champion a patient-first approach that ensures access to optimal eye care in every setting.
A Proven Model Transforming Cataract Care in Canada
Cataract surgery is the most performed procedure in Canada with over 500,000 surgeries annually nationwide, and more than 200,000 in Ontario alone.
In many provinces — including Atlantic Canada, Quebec, Manitoba, and Alberta — a growing number of cataract surgeries are now performed in privately managed, purpose-built, and fully accredited outpatient eye surgery centres. Operating within the publicly funded healthcare system, these specialized clinics have played a vital role in reducing wait times and improving access to care.
By shifting surgical volume to these high-efficiency centres, provinces have made meaningful progress in addressing backlogs and improving care delivery. This model has demonstrated measurable success and is helping to reshape the future of vision care across Canada – but there is still work to be done.
Our mission
To unite Canada’s leading ophthalmologists and surgical centres in delivering exceptional, timely, and inclusive vision care—guided by clinical excellence, professional collaboration, and a commitment to national eye health.