Cancer patients continue to pay out-of-pocket for chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and related services at most private and mission hospitals, a lobby group has reported.
The Social Health Authority has identified at least 55 private and faith-based comprehensive cancer centers. However, many of these centers are struggling with the new IT system, often unable to log in or access patient lists. As a result, they are charging patients directly instead of risking credit arrangements with the SHA.
The Kenyan Network of Cancer Organizations and the Cancer Survivors Association of Kenya highlighted that most cancer patients have paid their National Health Insurance Fund premiums for the year, but this is not reflected in the SHA portal.
“The current situation is unacceptable and jeopardizes the health of cancer patients nationwide. The government and SHA must act quickly to safeguard the lives and well-being of these individuals by addressing these concerns,” stated Kenco executive director Phoebe Ongadi.
Cancer is the third leading cause of death in Kenya, with 44,700 new cases and 29,300 deaths annually.
Prisca Githuka, chairperson of the Cancer Survivors Association of Kenya, noted that many patients, often facing late-stage diagnoses, depend on timely access to treatment for survival. “The recent transition to SHA has unfortunately created obstacles to accessing this life-saving care,” she added.
Kenco and CSA are urging the government to restore full access to cancer services across all facilities, ensuring no patient is charged cash, turned away, or denied care. They also want the Social Health Insurance Fund to resume coverage for overseas treatment for patients unable to access specialized care locally.
“We urge the government and SHA to provide clear information on oncology packages, including premium amounts, payment options, and coverage details, while engaging civil society in public awareness efforts,” they stated in a joint statement.
The cost of cancer treatment in Kenya varies based on cancer type, treatment modality, medication costs, and inpatient admission type. A single cycle of chemotherapy can cost around Sh30,000 or more, with most patients needing over six cycles. Radiotherapy costs at least Sh6,000 per session, with patients often requiring more than 30 sessions.
Kenco and CSA are calling for SHA to engage in open dialogue with civil society organizations and work toward sustainable solutions for cancer patients during this transition period. “We urge SHA to take immediate action to prevent further harm to cancer patients,” they emphasized.
On Tuesday, Medical Services PS Harry Kimtai warned health facilities against charging cash. He noted that 7,000 health providers have been contracted to deliver various health services and that the government would soon publish a list of facilities registered in the SHA system.
“This week, we will disclose the facilities approved to provide medical services under the SHA. If you have signed a contract with us, you are expected to serve Kenyans without discrimination. If not, we will take action,” he said.
The PS added that the government is addressing outstanding payments to health facilities, having already disbursed Sh1.5 billion, with an additional Sh3 billion scheduled for release this week, ensuring that all claims are settled within 90 days.
