Healthcare Costs Continue to Impoverish Kenyans, SHIF Set to Offer Cancer Relief

The growing financial burden imposed by healthcare costs has continued to push many Kenyan families into poverty, with catastrophic health expenditures being one of the primary causes. Director General for Health Dr. Patrick Amoth has revealed that each year, one million Kenyans risk being impoverished by medical expenses, particularly those incurred due to cancer treatment. The cancer burden, which has steadily increased in Kenya, poses not only a health crisis but also a socio-economic one.

During the launch of the National Childhood Cancer Awareness Month at the Kenyatta University Teaching Research and Referral Hospital (KUTRRH), Dr. Amoth addressed the challenges faced by Kenyans in accessing affordable cancer care. The theme for the event, “Reducing the Survival Gap,” highlighted the disparity in survival rates between different socio-economic groups, underscoring the need for equitable access to cancer treatment.

Amid the grim reality of healthcare costs pushing many into poverty, the DG brought a message of hope. He announced that the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF), a new medical scheme set to be rolled out on October 1, 2024, would provide a solution to this pressing issue. SHIF will fully cover cancer treatment, relieving the financial strain that has left many households in distress. This new medical insurance cover, expected to revolutionize cancer care access, is part of the government’s broader initiative to strengthen the healthcare system and ensure that every Kenyan can access quality care without the fear of financial ruin.

Dr. Amoth urged all Kenyans to register with the new Social Health Authority (SHA) ahead of the official rollout of the SHIF. “It is crucial that Kenyans register early to avoid delays in accessing the benefits that this new medical scheme offers,” he said. The SHA, tasked with managing the SHIF program, aims to ensure that the public receives comprehensive healthcare coverage, including cancer treatment, which has historically been a significant financial burden.

The launch event at KUTRRH also marked the commissioning of a pediatric oncology ward, signaling a significant milestone in the hospital’s cancer care services. KUTRRH has been at the forefront of providing cutting-edge cancer treatment, equipped with state-of-the-art diagnostic and treatment facilities. The hospital’s administration has received praise for its commitment to offering exemplary cancer care for both children and adults, thanks to its competent staff and advanced medical technology.

Prof. Olive Mugenda, the Chairperson of the KUTRRH Board, spoke at the event, advocating for the completion of the children’s wing, which has been under construction for the past six years. Originally allocated Ksh 500 million, the 300-bed facility still requires additional funding to complete the project. Prof. Mugenda emphasized the importance of this wing in improving cancer care for children and called on the relevant authorities to fast-track the completion process.

In response to Prof. Mugenda’s request, Dr. Amoth promised to raise the matter with the appropriate departments to ensure more funds are allocated towards the project. “We are committed to ensuring that this facility is completed and fully operational to serve the needs of our children battling cancer,” Dr. Amoth remarked.

In addition to infrastructural development, KUTRRH has also been advancing cancer research in collaboration with international partners. Notably, the hospital has partnered with the University of Manchester to conduct research on esophageal cancer, a prevalent condition in Kenya. The research project is currently at an advanced stage, offering hope for improved treatment and understanding of this disease.

Ahmed Dagane, the Chief Executive of KUTRRH, reiterated the hospital’s dedication to advancing healthcare outcomes through innovative care, research, and partnerships. He highlighted the hospital’s efforts in expanding support services to ensure that families dealing with cancer are not only provided with medical care but also emotional, psychological, and financial support.

“Cancer is a battle fought on multiple fronts. Beyond treatment, families need all the support they can get to endure this journey, and we are committed to providing that,” said Dagane.

As Kenya prepares for the rollout of the SHIF in October, the promise of fully covered cancer treatment offers a glimmer of hope to thousands of families grappling with the disease. With continued investment in healthcare infrastructure, research, and comprehensive insurance coverage, the country moves closer to addressing the healthcare challenges that have long impoverished its citizens.