Trans Nzoia County Director of Health, Dr. Isaac Kisiangani Babu, has commended cancer champions for their resilience in fighting the disease while emphasizing the urgent need for improved healthcare services and affordable treatment. Speaking during a cancer awareness event, Dr. Babu highlighted the emotional and financial toll cancer takes on families, noting that many people do not take the disease seriously until it affects them or their loved ones.
🗣️ “It sounds like a story until it hits home. We understand the emotional and financial toll cancer takes on families. Seeing these warriors smile and dance with us today is a testament to their strength. They are our heroes,” said Dr. Babu.
As part of this year’s World Cancer Day theme, “United by Unique,” Dr. Babu reaffirmed the county’s commitment to enhancing cancer care services, increasing access to healthcare, and ensuring the affordability of cancer treatment for all patients.
📍 Establishing a Dedicated Cancer Center
To strengthen cancer care services, the county government is committed to operationalizing the former Mt. Elgon Hospital as a specialized cancer center. However, bureaucratic delays have slowed the process.
🗣️ “I know the process has taken time, but it will happen. Those familiar with government procedures understand that even purchasing a pen follows a process,” Dr. Babu explained. “We are following the law, not delaying intentionally.”
The new cancer center is expected to provide specialized diagnosis, treatment, and palliative care, easing the burden on cancer patients who currently travel long distances for treatment.
💡 The Role of Community Health Promoters (CHPs) in Early Cancer Detection
Dr. Babu stressed the crucial role of Community Health Promoters (CHPs) in detecting cancer early. CHPs are not cancer specialists but can identify potential symptoms and refer patients to hospitals for timely intervention.
🗣️ “Many cancers develop silently, and by the time symptoms appear, they are already in advanced stages,” he noted. “CHPs can help bridge this gap by creating awareness and directing patients to seek medical care early.”
By empowering CHPs with the necessary training and support, the county aims to reduce late-stage cancer diagnoses and improve survival rates.
🏥 Challenges in the Implementation of the Social Health Authority (SHA)
Despite efforts to improve cancer care, the newly introduced Social Health Authority (SHA) has posed significant challenges to patients and healthcare providers.
📌 Key Concerns:
✅ Low Registration Rates: Only 14% of eligible Trans Nzoia residents have enrolled in SHA.
✅ Limited Coverage for Cancer Patients: SHA allocates Ksh 400,000 per cancer patient, of which Ksh 100,000 is reserved for tests—a figure cancer champions argue is insufficient.
✅ Increased Costs for Patients: Under SHA, patients must now pay Ksh 1,600 per visit to Kenyatta National Hospital, in addition to food and accommodation expenses.
✅ Shortage of Cancer Medication: Public hospitals often lack essential cancer drugs, forcing patients to purchase costly medication out-of-pocket.
📢 Cancer Champions Speak Out
Emily Wetala, a cancer survivor and sickle cell patient, expressed frustration over SHA’s shortcomings.
💬 “NHIF used to cover outpatient costs at Kenyatta National Hospital, but now I have to pay Ksh 1,600 per visit,” Wetala lamented. “That’s on top of food and accommodation expenses. It’s a huge burden for ordinary Kenyans.”
Another cancer advocate, Elizabeth Sitawa, criticized SHA’s cancer treatment package, calling for an increase in financial support.
💬 “Cancer treatment is extremely expensive. The current SHA coverage makes it hard for patients to seek proper medical care,” she noted.
Both Wetala and Sitawa urged the government to allocate more funds for cancer treatment and ensure that essential medicines are available in both county and national health facilities.
🚀 County Government’s Commitment to Improving Healthcare
Despite these challenges, Dr. Babu assured residents that under Governor George Natembeya’s leadership, Trans Nzoia County is working tirelessly to eliminate medical shortages and enhance healthcare services.
✅ Ensuring the availability of essential cancer medication in public hospitals.
✅ Expediting the operationalization of the dedicated cancer center at the former Mt. Elgon Hospital.
✅ Encouraging more residents to register for SHA to fully benefit from its coverage.
✅ Strengthening the role of CHPs in community healthcare to promote early detection and timely treatment.
🗣️ “There will be no excuses. Our facilities will have medicine and the necessary resources to provide quality healthcare,” Dr. Babu assured.
📌 Call to Action: Seek Medical Attention Early
Dr. Babu urged residents to seek medical help early instead of turning to expensive alternative treatments.
💡 “People with chronic illnesses, including cancer and mental health conditions, should not wait until it’s too late. Our hospitals are equipped to provide care, and it’s crucial to seek medical attention promptly.”
The Trans Nzoia County Government remains committed to strengthening healthcare services, improving cancer treatment accessibility, and advocating for better SHA implementation to support cancer patients.
📢 Residents are encouraged to:
✔️ Register for SHA to maximize healthcare benefits.
✔️ Visit public hospitals for cancer screening and early diagnosis.
✔️ Support community health awareness initiatives.
🔍 What’s Next?
🛠️ Fast-tracking the establishment of the dedicated cancer center.
📋 Increasing SHA registration campaigns across Trans Nzoia County.
💊 Enhancing the availability of cancer treatment and medication.
👨⚕️ Empowering CHPs to strengthen early cancer detection and referrals.
With these efforts, Trans Nzoia County aims to enhance healthcare access, ease financial burdens on cancer patients, and improve overall health outcomes for its residents.
