Cancer patients are still paying cash for chemotherapy, radiotherapy and other related services in most private and mission hospitals, a lobby has complained.
At least 55 private and faith-based comprehensive cancer centres have been enlisted by the Social Health Authority.
However, many of them say the new IT system is fraught with challenges and they are unable to log in many times or see the list of patients.
They therefore charge their clients rather than risk offering services on credit and later demand payment from SHA.
The Kenyan Network of Cancer Organizations and Cancer Survivors Association of Kenya said most cancer patients had fully paid their National Health Insurance Fund premiums for this year, but this is not reflected on the SHA portal.
“The current situation is untenable and jeopardises the health of cancer patients across the country. The government and SHA must act swiftly to protect the lives and well-being of these patients by addressing the outlined concerns,” said 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 said many cancer patients, already facing late-stage diagnoses, rely on timely access to treatment for survival.
“The recent transition to SHA has unfortunately created barriers to accessing this life-saving care,” she said.
Kenco and CSA want the government to reinstate full access to cancer services across all facilities and ensure no patient is asked to pay cash, turned away or denied care.
They also want the Social Health Insurance Fund to resume coverage for overseas cancer treatment for patients who cannot access specialised care locally.
“We petition the government and SHA to provide transparent information on the oncology packages including premium amounts, payment options and coverage details across the cancer continuum and engage civil society in public awareness efforts,” they said in a joint statement.
The cost of cancer treatment in Kenya depends on the type of cancer, the modality, the cost of medicines and the type of inpatient admission.
One cycle of chemotherapy can cost about Sh30,000 or higher depending on the drug used. Most patients require more than six cycles.
Radiotherapy costs at least Sh6,000 per session in private hospitals and one needs upwards of 30 sessions.
Kenco and CSA want SHA to engage in open dialogue with civil society organisations and work towards sustainable solutions for cancer patients during the transition period.
“We call upon SHA to take immediate action to prevent further harm to cancer patients,” they said.
On Tuesday, Medical Services PS Harry Kimtai threatened health facilities that still charge cash.
He said so far 7,000 health providers have been contracted to deliver all kinds of health services. Kimtai said that the government will publish a list of all facilities registered in the SHA system.
“This week, we will make public the facilities that have been approved to provide medical services under the SHA. As long as 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 said that the government
is addressing outstanding payments to health facilities, having
already disbursed Sh1.5 billion,
with another Sh3 billion scheduled for payment this week and
will ensure all claims are settled
within 90 days.