The Social Health Authority (SHA) has initiated a review of its cancer care package following growing public concerns about inadequate support for patients and families affected by the disease.
The reassessment, led by the Benefit Package and Tariffs Advisory Panel (BTAP), seeks to expand coverage, reduce treatment costs, and enhance access to quality care under Kenya’s universal health coverage framework.
In a public notice issued on Thursday, SHA said the ongoing health financing reforms are aimed at making cancer treatment more affordable and accessible to all Kenyans.
“The Social Health Authority (SHA) remains committed to ensuring that every Kenyan has access to high-quality cancer care, treatment and support from the National Health Insurance Fund to the Social Health Insurance coverage scheme,” the notice stated.
SHA acknowledged the challenges raised by patients and caregivers, noting that many families continue to face heavy financial and emotional burdens. The Authority pledged to strengthen partnerships and transparency in financing mechanisms to ensure equitable access to care.
“We understand the financial and emotional challenges faced by families coping with cancer and are mandated under the law to provide a framework for improved healthcare access and protection in line with the right to health and universal health coverage,” SHA said.
The Authority also commended advocacy networks such as the Kenya Network of Cancer Organisations (KENCO) for their contribution to awareness, fundraising, and policy dialogue, noting that their collaboration has been instrumental in shaping ongoing reforms.
“SHA acknowledges the highly significant progress the Kenya Network of Cancer Organisations (KENCO) in fundraising, sensitisation campaigns, and in policy advocacy,” the Authority added.
According to SHA, the newly gazetted Benefit and Tariff Advisory Panel will base its review on clinical evidence, data, and affordability to ensure cancer patients receive comprehensive and timely treatment.
“The Benefit and Tariff Advisory Panel (BTAP), recently gazetted, is mandated to align benefits to evidence-based reviews of health needs. This includes ongoing assessment of oncology benefits to ensure treatment remains both affordable and of high quality,” the Authority stated.
SHA said the ongoing review is part of a broader agenda to create a sustainable and transparent health financing system that supports inclusivity and access to essential cancer medicines and diagnostic services.
“This work forms part of SHA’s broader health financing and system reform agenda, which aims to make Kenya’s health insurance more efficient, inclusive and sustainable,” said the notice signed by SHA Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Mercy Mwangangi.
The Authority reiterated its commitment to strengthening Kenya’s healthcare system through efficiency, integrity, and citizen-focused service delivery. It also recognised the critical role played by caregivers, advocacy groups, and healthcare professionals in supporting patients throughout their treatment journeys.
“SHA empathises deeply with cancer patients and families affected by cancer and appreciates the role of advocacy organisations in highlighting patient experiences,” the statement noted.
Concluding the notice, SHA reaffirmed its goal to protect Kenyans from financial hardship caused by high treatment costs and ensure that cancer care remains accessible to all.
“SHA continues to prioritise evidence-based reforms that ensure no Kenyan is left behind in accessing life-saving cancer treatment,” the notice emphasised.
Dr. Mwangangi added that the ongoing reforms are aligned with Kenya’s vision for universal health coverage and will continue evolving to meet the country’s healthcare needs.
“We reaffirm our commitment to continuous improvement to ensure that no Kenyan is left behind in accessing lifesaving care,” she said.