Cataract Surgery Wait Times in Quebec (2024)

Table of contents

• Introduction
• Paying for cataract surgery in Quebec
• Quebec hospitals with shortest cataract surgery wait times
• Quebec hospitals with longest cataract surgery wait times
• Interpreting wait times & data limitations
• Advocating for better data access

Introduction

Cataract surgery in Quebec is a medical procedure aimed at treating cataracts, a common eye condition where the lens of the eye becomes cloudy, leading to a decrease in vision. This surgery is prevalent among individuals experiencing vision impairment due to cataracts, affecting their ability to perform daily activities. The primary goal of the surgery is to restore vision by removing the cloudy lens and replacing it with an artificial lens called an intraocular lens (IOL).

Before undergoing cataract surgery, patients in Quebec undergo a comprehensive eye examination to assess the severity of the cataracts, the health of the eye, and to determine the appropriate power of the IOL. This pre-operative assessment also includes discussions about the risks and benefits of surgery, the different types of IOLs available (including those that may offer additional benefits beyond standard lenses, which might incur out-of-pocket costs), and what to expect during and after the surgery.

Cataract surgery in Quebec is typically performed on an outpatient basis under local anesthesia, combined with sedation to ensure patient comfort. The procedure involves making a small incision in the eye to remove the cloudy lens, which is then replaced with the artificial IOL. The surgery is usually quick, lasting about 30 minutes, and patients can often go home the same day.

Post-operative care is crucial for a successful outcome and includes follow-up appointments to monitor the eye's healing, instructions on using eye drops to prevent infection and inflammation, and guidelines on resuming normal activities. Most patients experience a significant improvement in vision soon after surgery, although complete healing can take several weeks.

Paying for cataract surgery in Quebec

Cataract surgeries are typically provided at no direct cost to residents of Quebec, as they are covered by the Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ). This coverage includes the procedure itself and a standard intraocular lens when performed in public hospitals.

RAMQ, funded through provincial taxes, ensures that essential medical services are accessible to Quebecers without direct charges at the point of service.

However, if individuals choose to receive treatment in private clinics or opt for advanced lens options, such as multifocal or toric lenses, additional costs may apply. These premium lenses, which can improve visual acuity or correct astigmatism, are not covered by RAMQ and are paid for out-of-pocket. Additionally, private clinics may offer technologies like laser-assisted surgery, which can increase the cost of the procedure.

Quebec hospitals with shortest cataract surgery wait times

Below are three integrated centers in Quebec which have the shortest cataract surgery wait times:

• 🥇 CISSS de la Côte-Nord has the shortest wait time for cataract surgery in Quebec, with a 98% probability of waiting less than 6 months.

• 🥈 CIUSSS de la Capitale-Nationale ranks second for the shortest wait time, with a probability of 97% of less than 6 months.

• 🥉 CISSS des Îles ranks third for the shortest wait time, with a probability of 97% of waiting less than 6 months. Hôpital de l'Archipel is the only hospital in the health region.

Quebec hospitals with longest cataract surgery wait times

Below are three integrated centers in Quebec which have the longest cataract surgery wait times:

• 🐌 CISSS de Lanaudière has the longest wait time for cataract surgery in Quebec, with a 62% probability of waiting less than 6 months.

• 🐢 CISSS de la Gaspésie ranks second for the longest wait time, with a probability of 74% of less than 6 months.

• 🦥 CIUSSS du Saguenay−Lac-Saint-Jean ranks third for the shortest wait time, with a probability of 75% of waiting less than 6 months.

Interpreting wait times & data limitations

Several factors can extend the average wait times for surgery in Quebec. Clinical considerations often lead doctors to delay surgeries based on a patient's medical needs or other priorities. Additionally, patients may postpone their procedures due to personal reasons like scheduling conflicts, financial constraints, or a preference to delay treatment. The availability of hospital operating rooms also plays a critical role. These spaces are necessary for surgeries but can be scarce if occupied for other medical procedures or impacted by labor shortages. Seasonal variations further influence both room availability and staffing levels, potentially prolonging wait times during certain periods.

Conversely, average wait times can sometimes seem shorter than anticipated due to various factors. Some patients have flexible schedules, allowing them to fill slots that become available unexpectedly, thus shortening their wait. This adaptability, when averaged with others, can make overall wait times appear more favorable. Seasonality affects this dynamic as well, with certain times of the year experiencing lower demand for surgeries or increased temporary staffing, which can enhance room availability and reduce delays.

Advocating for better data access

We are thankful for the efforts in Quebec to provide hospital wait times for surgeries. Quebec stands out globally for its transparency in reporting hospital wait times and covers a wide array of medical procedures.

We encourage the Quebec health authorities to expand their data reporting to include average wait times by doctor, as seen in British Columbia and Saskatchewan. This information would greatly benefit patients by allowing them to choose doctors with shorter wait times.

Readers can consider reaching out to Quebec health authorities to advocate for this beneficial change.