In a move set to boost healthcare access to all, Aga Khan University Hospital (AKUH) has collaborated with The Social Health Authority (SHA) to provide financial relief for patients in need of kidney transplants and cardiac surgeries.
The Ministry of Health through the Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale noted that this move is set to subsidize otherwise expensive critical care for eligible Kenyans.
Speaking at a collaboration ceremony the Cabinet Secretary said this move will aid in achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC).
“This partnership is a step forward in our journey towards Universal Health Coverage, by working together, SHA and Aga Khan University Hospital are ensuring that no Kenyan is denied essential care due to financial constraints.”
Rashid Khalani, CEO the Aga Khan University Hospital, said that the collaboration with SHA will make medical procedures like kidney transplants more affordable, assuring Kenyans that the services offered are world-class.
“Aga Khan University Hospital will provide high-quality surgical and post-surgical care to all approved patients, in accordance with national clinical standards and protocols.”
This collaboration comes amid rising cases of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in Kenya, the cost of managing these diseases is raising out-of-pocket spending, further driving poverty.
According to the Ministry of Health, out of pocket expenditure makes up 24.3% of total health spending, the economic impacts of NCDs alone caused a 28.64% decline in household income, this high number is also attributed to the fact that Kenyans have routinely traveled out of the country to receive treatment.
According to data collected in 2022, over 11,000 Kenyans travel abroad each year in search of medical treatment, spending billions in the process.
“This trend of medical tourism is based more on perception than reality, with partnerships like this, we are proving that world-class care is possible right here at home many of the treatments sought overseas are available locally, this partnership seeks to restore confidence in our local health system by making advanced care more affordable,” Duale Said.
Once a Patient is approved for kidney transplant, SHA will cover up to KSHs 700,000 of their procedure this includes the surgery and necessary post-operative care.
On their part, AKUH promised world class care, “We are honored to work with SHA in the national effort to expand access to life-saving surgeries. This collaboration reflects our commitment to giving back to society while upholding world-class medical standards,” Khalani said.
