Improving Access to Cancer Testing and Treatment in Kenya

Journal of Global Oncology
Louise K Makau-BarasaAntonia V Bennett

Abstract

In response to the increasing cancer burden in Kenya, this study identified barriers to patients seeking access to cancer testing and treatment and to clinicians in delivering these services. Policy recommendations based on findings are presented. This qualitative study used semistructured key informant interviews. Purposive sampling was used to recruit 14 participants: seven oncology clinicians and seven support and advocacy leaders for patients with cancer. Qualitative analysis was used to identify themes. Seven barriers to cancer testing and treatment were identified: high cost of testing and treatment, low level of knowledge about cancer among population and clinicians, poor health-seeking behaviors among population, long distances to access diagnostic and treatment services, lack of decentralized diagnostic and treatment facilities, poor communication, and lack of better cancer policy development and implementation. Kenyans seeking cancer services face significant barriers that result in late presentation, misdiagnosis, interrupted treatment, stigma, and fear. Four policy recommendations to improve access for patients with cancer are (1) improve health insurance for patients with cancer; (2) establish testing and treatment...Continue Reading

References

Jun 12, 2012·Health Care for Women International·Caroline Wangari NgugiJohn N Mbithi
Apr 9, 2013·The Lancet Oncology·Megan O'BrienAnne Merriman
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Sep 5, 2015·Health Education Research·J KisuyaT Inui

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Citations

Jan 9, 2020·Health Research Policy and Systems·Louise Kathini Makau-BarasaAntonia V Bennett
Apr 11, 2018·BMC Health Services Research·Jane A Owenga, Erick Otieno Nyambedha
Mar 31, 2020·Ophthalmology and Therapy·Ana JanicHelen Dimaras
Jan 29, 2019·Journal of Global Oncology·Mishka Kohli CiraAmanda L Vogel
May 6, 2020·BMC Public Health·Lauren SuchmanRita Mwachandi

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