MoH says breast cancer treatment costs to drop after partnership with Roche

Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale announced the changes after a partnership with Roche East Africa, via the Social Health Authority (SHA). 

According to the ministry, the partnership is designed to improve financial protection for cancer patients as part of Kenya's Universal Health Coverage initiative, addressing cancer as one of the country's major non-communicable diseases.

The Memorandum of Understanding establishes a treatment cost ceiling of Ksh.40,000 per session without requiring patient co-payments. Duale said the arrangement will be implemented across all SHA-contracted facilities, including public, faith-based, and private hospitals, to ensure equal access to treatment.

The collaboration encompasses several elements like improved access to cancer medications and diagnostic tools, healthcare worker training in breast and cervical cancer care, and expanded screening programs for early detection and better patient outcomes.

Duale emphasized the Ministry's dedication to healthcare system transformation, noting additional reforms like digital health initiatives to address counterfeit medicines and unqualified practitioners. 

He described the partnership as focused on preserving lives, advancing equity, and maintaining healthcare system integrity.

“This partnership is not only about reducing treatment costs; it’s about saving lives, promoting equity, and reinforcing the integrity of our healthcare system,” said Duale.