ADAPTIVE MECHANISMS TO INCREASE ACCESS TO CANCER CARE SERVICES IN SUB-SAHARAN AFRICA DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC

ABSTRACT

Introduction Cancer now is the top 3 causes of morbidity and mortality in Sub Saharan Africa. With limited infrastructure and resources, cancer caused havoc since the outbreak of COVID-19. Majority of specialists are located in cities and major towns in Kenya. Access to basic specialized oncological services is a major problem. Fear of traveling, contracting COVID, lack of transport and long distances to the oncology clinics negatively impacted cancer care. There was need to innovate ways to bridge gap in accessing cancer care especially in hard-to-reach places. Objective: To highlight the integrated multidisciplinary, innovative approaches to increase access to cancer care services during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods Retrospective study utilizing descriptive statistics to analyze the activities carried out by the International Cancer Institute to provide oncological services during the COVID-19 pandemic in Sub-Saharan Africa. Results Facility-based telemedicine platform,4000 virtual consultations and 240 multidisciplinary virtual tumor boards conducted with 20,000 Healthcare Professionals in attendance within eighteen months. 70 cancer and non cancer preceptorship courses held virtually 8,000 primary healthcare workers trained. 14 rural oncology clinics established with 4 revolving fund pharmacies. 10000 patients benefited. Conclusions Embracing and adopting technology has massive impact in cancer care. Empowerment of primary healthcare providers can ensure continuity of cost effective care without interruptions.