SHA Bows to Pressure, Seeks Meeting With Group Following Protest

The Social Health Authority (SHA) has responded to concerns raised by cancer patients and advocacy groups, committing to collaborative discussions on improving cancer care delivery under the national health insurance program.

In a notice released on Thursday, October 9, SHA Chief Executive Officer Dr. Mercy Mwangangi acknowledged the grievances brought forward by patients and caregivers regarding cancer care benefits and current tariffs.

The response comes just two days after the Kenya Network of Cancer Organizations (KENCO) held a peaceful demonstration at SHA headquarters on Tuesday, October 7, highlighting what they termed as critical shortcomings in cancer care provision.

During the protest, cancer advocates raised alarm over diminished oncology benefits, prolonged approval waiting periods, escalating treatment expenses, and communication breakdowns alongside medicine shortages.

In her statement, Dr. Mwangangi emphasized that cancer care remains a top priority for SHA, acknowledging the significant physical, emotional, and financial hardships faced by patients and their families.

"Our focus is to ensure that no Kenyan is left behind in accessing lifesaving care. Our core objective, as mandated under the law, is to provide a framework for improved health outcomes and financial protection in line with the right to health and universal health coverage," Dr. Mwangangi stated.

The SHA boss revealed that the authority welcomes the memorandum from KENCO and describes it as evidence of substantial progress made nationally in reforming cancer benefits and tariff packages.

SHA has scheduled a meeting with KENCO representatives early next week to discuss how to enhance cancer care services.

Dr. Mwangangi noted that the Benefits Package and Tariffs Advisory Panel (BPTAP), recently gazetted, is mandated to review and advise on health benefits continuously. The Panel is currently examining the oncology package with the objective of raising the limit for cancer treatment benefits to ensure more comprehensive coverage.

"The benefit package is not static. It is reviewed regularly, guided by data, clinical evidence, and patient feedback, to keep it responsive to evolving health needs," she explained.

In a significant development announced in the notice, SHA confirmed it has already increased the oncology package limit from Ksh 600,000 to Ksh 550,000 in April this year.

The authority disclosed ongoing collaboration with hospitals, professional associations, and pharmaceutical manufacturers to reduce treatment costs.

"SHA remains open to feedback and committed to continuous improvement to ensure that no Kenyan is left behind in accessing lifesaving care," the CEO concluded.