The Kenyan Network of Cancer Organizations (KENCO) has denied claims by the Social Health Authority (SHA) that a meeting has been scheduled with its representatives to discuss the ongoing oncology benefits package.
Earlier on Thursday, SHA had announced that it would meet KENCO representatives next week to explore ways to enhance cancer care and patient support under the new health insurance scheme.
The statement came amid protests by cancer patients and caregivers over the benefits package provided under SHA.
In a clarification issued later, KENCO stated that it had not received any official communication, invitation, or meeting request from SHA despite the Authority’s public statement.
“As of the time of this statement, KENCO has not received any official communication, invitation, or meeting request from the Social Health Authority. While we acknowledge and appreciate SHA’s public recognition of cancer care as a national priority, it is important to clarify that no such meeting has been scheduled or confirmed,” the organisation said.
KENCO reaffirmed its commitment to working collaboratively with SHA, the Ministry of Health, the National Treasury, Parliament’s Health Committees, and the Council of Governors to advance Universal Health Coverage (UHC) that meets the needs of Kenyans living with cancer.
The organisation added that its petition on the oncology benefits package had been formally tabled before the National Assembly and referred to the Parliamentary Health Committee for review.
“As part of our follow-up steps, we will be engaging the Health Committee and other key stakeholders to ensure that the issues raised in the petition are addressed comprehensively,” KENCO said.
The cancer advocacy group also reiterated its willingness to engage in constructive dialogue once an official invitation is extended, emphasising its goal of ensuring equitable, accessible, and quality healthcare for all Kenyans under the new social health framework.
Cancer patients, at different stages of treatment, have recently held protests to draw attention to the challenges they face, including financial strain and access to care.
In response, SHA said it had taken note of the concerns raised by patients and caregivers over the current tariffs and assured Kenyans that no one would be denied access to lifesaving care due to financial hardship.
The Authority said its planned engagement with stakeholders would focus on strengthening oncology benefits and addressing concerns over treatment costs and coverage limits.
“Cancer care is a top priority for SHA, and we recognise the physical, emotional, and financial challenges faced by patients and their families,” the Authority said.
“Our focus is to ensure that Kenyans receive the care they need without undue financial hardship.”
SHA further noted that it had received KENCO’s memorandum and welcomed it as a constructive contribution to ongoing health reforms.
It added that while benefit packages and tariffs are informed by clinical, financial, and demographic data, organisations such as KENCO play a vital role in shaping policy through dialogue and collaboration.
