Guidance on Higher Flow Any Complexity Cataract Surgery (HFAC) updated in September 2025 building on learning from the national cataract hub model to define best practice for delivering safe, efficient, and sustainable cataract surgery across all levels of case complexity. It expands high flow surgical principles to cover both routine and complex cataract cases, provides a practical framework for ophthalmology teams and service leaders to implement streamlined, patient-centred pathways that enhance outcomes while supporting workforce sustainability.
Key features of the HFAC guidance
- Detailed recommendations for every stage of the cataract pathway – from referral and assessment to theatre delivery, discharge, and post-operative care.
- Standardised models for list planning and theatre flow to optimise efficiency and patient safety.
- Defined multidisciplinary team (MDT) roles and training requirements to support consistent, high-quality care.
- Guidance on risk stratification and bespoke safety checks to reduce never events such as wrong implant errors.
- Focus on continuous improvement through audit, clinical governance, and professional development.