The Kenyan Network of Cancer Organizations (KENCO) and the Cancer Survivors Association of Kenya have come together to petition the government, urging the restoration of full access to cancer treatment services.
Their petition raises concerns about the difficulties cancer patients are facing due to the transition from the National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF) to the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF) under the newly established Social Health Authority (SHA).
Addressed to key health bodies, including the Ministry of Health and the National Assembly Health Committee, the petition stresses the need for urgent action to avoid disruptions in cancer care. The organizations highlight that cancer is the third leading cause of death in Kenya, with 44,700 new cases and 29,300 deaths reported each year, according to Globocan 2022 data. Many patients depend on consistent access to life-saving treatments, which has been put at risk by the transition to SHA.
The petitioners demand the immediate reinstatement of comprehensive cancer treatment services at all facilities, ensuring that no patient is denied care, turned away, or forced to pay out of pocket. They are also calling for SHA to resume funding for overseas cancer treatment for patients unable to access specialized care within Kenya.
Additionally, the civil society groups are pressing the government to resolve system failures that are hindering patient registration and to ensure efficient access to care. They are also urging the government to promptly settle outstanding NHIF bills to restore the confidence of healthcare facilities providing cancer care.
KENCO and the Cancer Survivors Association of Kenya emphasize that the current disruptions are endangering cancer patients’ lives nationwide and are calling for swift government action to address these critical issues.
