Instrument panel (cluster) bulbs need replacing, is there a way to replace the bulbs instead of removing the dash?

It sounds like what you have already read is correct as what you wrote are the items that need to be removed to get the cluster out so you can get to the rear of it to change out the bulbs. However, it really doesn't take that long to do the actual work. About an hour to remove change all the bulbs and put it back together as much of it simply snaps together.
This goes with the attached images as the process. The bulbs used are a socketed type that twist in. Ford number F8RZ13B765BA and it uses 5.

1. Remove the ashtray and cigar lighter bezel.
2. Remove the audio unit.
3. Remove the switch assembly.
1 Detach the switch assembly.
2 Disconnect the electrical connectors.
4. Detach the heater control panel/audio unit bezel.
1 Remove the screws
2 Detach the bezel from the clips.
5. Remove the heater control/audio unit bezel.
Disconnect the electrical connectors.
Disconnect the vacuum line.
6. Remove the instrument panel lower trim panel.
7. Detach the lamp switch panel.
1 Remove the screws.
2 Detach the panel from the clips.
8. Disconnect the electrical connectors.
9. Remove the instrument cluster bezel.
1 Remove the screws.
2 Release the clips.
3 Remove the bezel.
10. Detach the instrument cluster.
11. Remove the instrument cluster.
1 Release the locking tangs.
2 Disconnect the electrical connectors.