The Social Health Authority (SHA) is set to meet representatives of the Kenya Network of Cancer Organizations (KENCO) next week to discuss strategies for improving cancer care and patient support under the new national health insurance scheme.
This follows recent protests by cancer patients and caregivers who raised concerns over the current oncology package, saying it does not adequately cover the high costs of treatment and medication. Patients, some undergoing chemotherapy and radiotherapy, expressed frustration over the financial burden and sought a review of the package to ensure equitable access to lifesaving care.
In response, SHA acknowledged the concerns and assured Kenyans that no one would be denied essential cancer treatment due to financial hardship. The Authority said the planned engagement would focus on strengthening oncology benefits, reviewing tariffs, and addressing key issues raised by patients and advocates.
According to SHA, cancer care remains a top national priority, and the Authority recognizes the physical, emotional, and financial strain the disease places on families. It emphasized its commitment to ensuring Kenyans receive the necessary care without facing undue financial distress.
The Authority confirmed it had received KENCO’s memorandum, terming it a constructive input into ongoing healthcare reforms. It added that while benefit packages and tariffs are based on clinical and financial data, patient associations like KENCO play a critical role in shaping health policy through collaboration and dialogue.
The meeting forms part of SHA’s broader strategy to strengthen partnerships with government agencies, healthcare providers, and advocacy groups to enhance service delivery and improve patient outcomes.
SHA reiterated its dedication to transparency, sustainability, and fairness in developing a comprehensive cancer care system that meets the needs of all patients. It noted that the newly established Benefits Package and Tariffs Advisory Panel (BPTAP) is currently reviewing the oncology package to expand treatment limits and ensure better coverage.
Earlier this year, SHA increased the oncology coverage limit from Sh400,000 to Sh550,000 and has been engaging with hospitals and pharmaceutical firms to make treatment more affordable. The Authority highlighted a partnership with Roche that reduced the price of Herceptin, a key drug for HER2-positive breast cancer, from Sh120,000 to Sh40,000 per dose.
SHA reaffirmed its commitment to continuous improvement and stakeholder engagement, stating that its goal is to ensure no Kenyan is left behind in accessing quality, affordable, and lifesaving cancer care.
