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Kenyans registered under the Social Health Authority (SHA) can now access specialised medical services at reduced cost.

The Ministry of Health announced a partnership with two health facilities, reducing the cost of advanced medical procedures.

Health Cabinet Secretary (CS) Aden Duale presided over the signing of a strategic partnership between SHA and Roche East Africa on Thursday, May 29.

Duale said the partnership will expand access to affordable cancer care under Kenya's Universal Health Coverage (UHC) agenda.

The collaboration will give breast and cervical cancer patients a significant cost reduction, with treatment sessions dropping from KSh 120,000 to KSh 40,000.

"Patients will pay nothing out-of-pocket, and services will be available across all SHA-contracted facilities, both public, faith-based, and private sector," said Duale.

SHA is expected to cover KSh 500,000 of the estimated cost per patient under the agreement, enhancing access to cancer medicines, diagnostics and expanded screening for early detection.

Duale said the collaboration will save the country KSh 17 million lost daily to the burden of breast and cervical cancer.

Meanwhile, SHA signed a deal with Aga Khan University Hospital for specialised medical treatment, including kidney transplants and heart surgeries.

The agreement signed on Wednesday, May 28, will see SHA medical expenses for each treatment up to KSh 700,000.

Aga Khan University Hospital will provide high-quality surgical and post-surgical care to all approved patients under national clinical standards and protocols.

“This partnership directly supports our commitment to universal health coverage by making advanced medical care available to all Kenyans, regardless of their economic status. By partnering with reputable institutions like Aga Khan University Hospital and leveraging mechanisms such as the Patient Welfare Program, we are accelerating access to life-saving care for vulnerable citizens across the country," said Duale in a disclosure by the university.

The government kicked off the process of reviewing SHA benefit packages to suit the needs of the over 20 million Kenyans registered under the scheme.

However, the World Bank recommended a review of the funding model to the social health cover to achieve its full potential.

The Bretton Woods institution urged the government to consider exempting low-wage formal workers, informal workers, and poor Kenyans from monthly contributions to the SHA.

The lender recommended funding the gap from the exchequer and ensuring the low-income group gets access to medical services without out-of-pocket expenditure.

Source: TUKO.co.ke