Cancer patients across Kenya are set to benefit from a significant financial boost after the government increased the oncology treatment package under the Social Health Authority (SHA) by Ksh250,000.
The announcement, made on Monday, March 16 by Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo, raises the oncology cover from Ksh550,000 to Ksh800,000 per patient. This move follows months of public outcry over the high cost of cancer treatment, which has pushed many families into financial distress.
What the New SHA Oncology Package Covers
Under the enhanced SHA package, patients will now access a broader range of cancer treatment services without overwhelming financial strain. The cover includes:
- Diagnosis and screening
- Chemotherapy
- Radiotherapy
- Brachytherapy
- Surgical interventions
- Palliative care
- Medical consumables
- Advanced imaging such as PET/CT scans and MRIs
These services will be available at contracted healthcare facilities across the country, ensuring that more patients can receive comprehensive care under one package.
Government’s Commitment to Affordable Cancer Care
According to PS Omollo, the increased funding is part of a broader government strategy to improve healthcare access and reduce the economic burden associated with cancer treatment.
“The Government remains committed to expanding access to cancer care across the country through both progressive policy and strategic health infrastructure,” the SHA said in its statement.
The authority emphasized that the revised package will significantly ease the financial pressure on Kenyan families who often struggle to raise funds for life-saving treatment.
Expansion of Cancer Treatment Facilities
Beyond increasing financial coverage, the government is also investing in healthcare infrastructure to bring services closer to citizens, especially in underserved regions.
One of the key projects underway is the Kisii Cancer Centre, which is currently about 30% complete. Once operational, the facility is expected to serve patients from the South Nyanza region, reducing the need for long-distance travel to major cities for treatment.
PS Omollo confirmed that construction is progressing steadily, with work ongoing on the third floor and expected to continue through mid-April. The chemotherapy centre block is also scheduled to begin construction soon.
This expansion aligns with the government’s goal of decentralizing specialized healthcare services and improving access in marginalized areas.
SHA’s Financial Performance and Recent Disbursements
The announcement comes shortly after SHA CEO Mercy Mwangangi revealed the disbursement of Ksh11.1 billion to settle approved claims under the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF).
Payments to healthcare facilities began on Friday, March 13, and are expected to be fully processed by Thursday, March 19. This move is aimed at ensuring hospitals continue to provide uninterrupted services to patients under the scheme.
Despite facing staffing challenges in recent months, SHA has demonstrated strong financial performance:
- Ksh142.8 billion collected in contributions
- 29.8 million Kenyans transitioned to the new health insurance system
- Ksh109 billion paid out in claims to healthcare facilities
These figures highlight the growing scale and impact of the new health insurance framework in Kenya.
A Turning Point for Cancer Care in Kenya
The increase in the SHA oncology package marks a critical step in addressing one of Kenya’s most pressing healthcare challenges. Cancer treatment has long been associated with high costs, limited access, and delayed care due to financial constraints.
By raising the coverage to Ksh800,000 and investing in new facilities, the government is signaling a stronger commitment to universal health coverage and equitable access to specialized care.
For thousands of Kenyan families, this policy shift could mean earlier diagnosis, better treatment outcomes, and reduced financial hardship.