One million Kenyans are at risk of falling into poverty each year due to high healthcare costs, with cancer being the leading factor, according to Dr. Patrick Amoth, Director General for Health. Speaking at the launch of National Childhood Cancer Awareness Month at Kenyatta University Teaching Research and Referral Hospital (KUTRRH), Dr. Amoth emphasized the government’s commitment to ensuring cancer treatment is fully covered under the new Social Health Authority (SHA) medical scheme, set to roll out on October 1, 2024.
The event, themed “Reducing the Survival Gap,” featured a public awareness walk and the commissioning of a pediatric oncology ward. Dr. Amoth urged Kenyans to register with SHA to access the new medical insurance.
Prof. Olive Mugenda, KUTRRH Board Chairperson, called for more funds to complete a 300-bed children’s wing, a project that has been under construction for six years. In response, Dr. Amoth promised to raise the issue with the relevant authorities.
KUTRRH CEO Ahmed Dagane highlighted the hospital’s commitment to innovative cancer care, including advanced research on oesophageal cancer in collaboration with the University of Manchester. The facility continues to enhance both medical and emotional support services for families affected by cancer.
