In an effort to enhance access to essential cancer treatment, the Ministry of Health has signed a Memorandum of Understanding to decentralise the Glivec International Patient Assistance Programme (GIPAP) across the country.

With an aim of devolving critical care to patients diagnosed with chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) and gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST), particularly in far-flung counties, the MOU with the Max Foundation has been touted as a game changer in the fight against cancer.

 Through MAS, The Max Foundation has provided imatinib, a vital medication for treating CML, and GIST, free of charge to patients, ensuring access to treatment without financial pains.

Previously, patients suffered significant financial constraints to purchase the medication whose monthly dosage would cost them Sh270,000, a prohibitive cost that most would not afford.

Described as a beacon of hope for countless cancer patients in Kenya, the program is said to have saved lives and brought essential healthcare services within reach of the most vulnerable populations.

Previously, patients had to travel to Nairobi for their treatment—a journey that posed significant challenges but since the signing of the MOU patients will now be receiving treatment at regional and county levels, making it more accessible and reducing the need for long-distance travel.

Through the Kenya Medical Supplies Authority (Kemsa), MOH has provided clearance, warehousing, distribution and quality assurance services.

Kemsa has ensured that the medications will reach the designated hospitals efficiently and managed last-mile delivery to guarantee availability at the point of care.

The order management for the medications has been coordinated through the National Cancer Control Program (NCCP), which ensured that the quantities requested by each facility were aligned with the number of patients they served.