Assessing the uptake and utilization of the National Hospital Insurance Fund's cancer benefit package at the MP Shah Hospital in Nairobi
Date
2018
Authors
Kamau, David Gachanja
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Publisher
Strathmore University
Abstract
Universal healthcare coverage (UHC) is a top priority for the Kenyan government, yet it presents a major challenge, with the increase in cancer incidences. This study sought to generate evidence on strengthening oncology services in Kenya by assessing the uptake and utilization of the recently launched National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF) Cancer Benefit Package among MP Shah Hospital clients, in Nairobi County. A mixed methods approach was used, combining a questionnaire survey among 71 cancer patients and in-depth interviews with 25 stakeholders/patients. Statistical and thematic content analyses were used for the survey and qualitative data respectively. Four-fifths of study participants were recently diagnosed with cancer (the last two years). The main barriers to access were low availability of cancer treatment facilities and limited access to specialized doctors and nurses. Two-thirds of respondents experienced catastrophic costs saying that the treatment was consuming more than 40% of their household income. It is evident from the study that uptake of health insurance among respondents was higher during treatment at 83% compared to only 66% at the time of diagnosis with only 63% of respondents aware of the Cancer Benefit Package. A resounding majority of respondents (70%) sought treatment at the facility because of the perceived high quality of services made affordable by the Cancer Benefit Package. The National Hospital Insurance Fund's Cancer Benefit Package provides a roadmap for accelerating the Universal Health Coverage agenda in Kenya by offering financial protection among cancer patients. This study recommends decision makers to expand the mandate of this scheme to include coverage among underserved populations especially in rural areas. This can be through the decentralization of cancer diagnostic and treatment centers as well as the training and development of adequate health personnel in oncology. Similar studies are required by both public and private entities to come up with recommendations on how to promote sustainable access to oncology services in Kenya.
Description
Submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the award of a Master's in Business Administration (MBA) Degree