The government has announced a major expansion of healthcare funding to improve critical care and cancer management services for Kenyans.
In the latest announcement, the Social Health Authority (SHA) will roll out enhanced benefits for Intensive Care Unit (ICU), High Dependency Unit (HDU), and oncology services starting today.
Newly appointed Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale said the initiative aims to ensure that patients receive high-quality treatment without financial hardship.
New oncology package under SHA
Under the new oncology package, cancer patients will now have access to Ksh 550,000 per year to cover diagnosis and treatment services. This amount includes Ksh 400,000 provided through the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF) and an additional Ksh 150,000 via the Enhanced Comprehensive Care Insurance Fund (ECCIF).
“This expansion ensures that our people can get the cancer treatment they need without worrying about financial constraints,” said Duale. “We are committed to making quality healthcare accessible to all Kenyans.”
Additionally, the reimbursement rate for ICU and HDU services has been significantly increased. Previously set at Ksh 4,480 per day, the new rate is Ksh 28,000 per day, reflecting the government’s commitment to supporting essential and life-saving healthcare services.
Duale emphasized that these services will be provided through contracted healthcare providers to maintain the highest quality of care.
The government’s latest move aligns with the Vision 2030 and the broader goal of achieving universal health coverage.
The enhanced funding is expected to alleviate the burden on families while ensuring that critical care and cancer treatment services remain accessible to all Kenyans in need.
What Aden Duale said about UHC staff disputes
Meanwhile, the Health CS pledged to address long-standing employment concerns affecting healthcare workers under the Universal Health Coverage (UHC) program within the next three weeks.
Speaking to hundreds of UHC workers at Afya House, Duale assured them of his commitment to resolving key issues, including the settlement of gratuity and transitioning workers with over five years of service to Permanent and Pensionable (PnP) terms.
He emphasized fairness and equity in addressing health sector concerns, promising consultative solutions that prioritize the welfare of healthcare professionals.
Additionally, the CS reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening Kenya’s healthcare system while cracking down on unqualified practitioners in the sector.
