Key gaps in the affordability and availability of insulin in Kenya have been identified in a study conducted by the Program for Appropriate Technology in Health (PATH).
PATH is active in around 70 counties, including Kenya, with a mission to advance health equity through innovation and partnerships.
They say that the cost of insulin in Kenya is unaffordable for many people living with diabetes.
The example that the lowest-paid government worker will need to work 15 days in order to purchase 30-days diabetes medication and supplies is a powerful example for the Government to take note and act.
PATH highlights that access to diabetes care is a key component in ensuring deaths and disabilities attributed to the disease are greatly reduced.
Fundamental issues in access to diabetes care include access to insulin and oral medicines, access to education and psychosocial support since diabetes as a condition requires the patient to acquire ongoing education and support in order to manage their condition.
Common to people in all countries around the world is the importance of access to self-monitoring devices and tests. These are key in diabetes management which includes blood glucose measuring devices that require replenishing strips.
Advocacy Action: Are insulin costs under control where you are? Can people with all forms of diabetes access monitoring devices and their supply? Are there existing campaigns being run that you could assist?