New renal care package to change lives of patients and families

Kenya’s journey toward universal healthcare has reached a critical junction, with the Social Health Authority (SHA) unveiling an expanded renal care package that could be a game-changer for thousands of Kenyans.

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD), often a result of widespread diseases like diabetes and hypertension, has become a silent crisis, accounting for about 2 per cent of all deaths in the country.

With SHA’s renewed commitment, the government has taken a decisive step to make renal care affordable, accessible and comprehensive. But as with any bold reform, the path forward is complex, demanding clear actions to overcome implementation challenges and fulfil this promise to Kenyans.

The SHA’s renal care package, launched in October 2024, goes well beyond previous national health initiatives, addressing critical gaps in the old system.

Under SHA, patients gain access to essential renal services such as hemodialysis, advanced hemodiafiltration, pre-and post-transplant care and even comprehensive support for kidney transplant surgeries - a stark improvement from limitations of the previous National Health Insurance Fund model.

Before SHA, patients with end-stage renal disease relied on two covered dialysis sessions a week, funded at Sh9,500 per session. Under SHA, not only are three sessions covered, but the support also extends to advanced procedures, catheter insertions and post-transplant medications, providing more inclusive and financially feasible care.

However, making this promise of accessible renal care a reality demands more than policy shifts; it requires operational and systemic adjustments.

SHA’s initial rollout faced technical issues, from a new portal system that healthcare providers encountered difficulties navigating, to delays that affected timely patient registration and reimbursement.

There were gaps in patient awareness, with many Kenyans and healthcare workers unaware of the available expanded benefits. The transition was thus met with challenges that limited its immediate impact on those needing urgent care.

These challenges underscore the need for strategic action. To fully leverage the SHA’s potential, the  Health ministry has addressed the technical shortcomings that hindered early access to care.

Enhancing portal usability, coupled with rigorous training for healthcare providers, is underway to ensure smooth operations and efficient service delivery. Moreover, a targeted public awareness campaign is ongoing to inform patients and caregivers of the expanded benefits, allowing them to take full advantage of the SHA’s renal care package.

Yet beyond these immediate fixes, sustainable renal care requires a deeper investment in healthcare infrastructure. Establishing a national registry for kidney diseases would allow for effective tracking and management.

Developing national guidelines for CKD and related renal conditions would standardise and improve treatment across the country.

In many ways, SHA’s renal care package is a lifeline for patients and families who have struggled to afford the high costs of renal care. Chronic kidney disease and end-stage renal failure are life-altering conditions, often leaving families financially strained and emotionally depleted.

Dr Barasa is Cabinet Secretary for Health