Nairobi MCAs pass law to set up 17 cancer centers
There is good news for Cancer patients in Nairobi the country following the adoption of a motion by the Nairobi City County assembly to set up cancer centers in all 17 sub-county hospitals.
While moving the motion, nominated MCA Karen Wanjiku said the care of cancer patients has been a nightmare in the county due to inadequate facilities.
“The county government of Nairobi does not have any cancer center other than the one at Kenyatta National Hospital which is a referral hospital hence it’s a county function to give their people better health care,” said Wanjiku.
Ms Wanjiku said the county government’s effort to create public awareness about the disease has not been successful because the national government has not given much help.
She added that all the sub-county hospitals should provide cancer treatment as the budget set aside for health was enough to buy the equipment.
Kayole MCA Elizabeth Manyala urged the County government to set up a kitty that will help cancer patients seeking treatment outside the country.
“The Kenyan government should emulate Tanzania where health insurance cover caters for bills incurred by patients who go abroad for treatment,” Ms Manyala said adding that it is unfortunate that cancer patients have to book for appointment at Kenyatta hospital six months in advance.