Overview

Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are the leading cause of death worldwide and disproportionately impact people in low- and middle-income countries. Between the physical ramifications of diagnosis to the financial burdens that come with long-term treatment, receiving the support they need throughout the entire patient journey is crucial for those living with NCDs.

The Blueprint for Innovative Healthcare Access program—a consortium led by Amref—expanded access to care and improved quality of life for people with NCDs in Kenya. Working with several community partners, the program took an integrated approach to address local health system needs and ensure a sustainable impact.

The Blueprint program enhanced care for NCDs by:

• Strengthening the capabilities and capacity of existing health systems
• Building an effective and reliable NCD supply chain management system
• Improving the allocation and use of NCD commodities, such as health products, medicines, and medical devices
• Advocating for increased NCD funding

As a consortium partner, MSH supported Meru and Makueni Counties to strengthen capacity for commodity stewardship for NCDs. Accomplishments included:

• Developed an NCD health products and technologies tracer list tool, which was integrated into the national reporting system, to improve commodity accountability and transparency
• Strengthened health system capacity and management through health worker trainings on commodity management and provision of job aids for treating NCDs
• Improved disease surveillance and research through the establishment of cancer registries
• Enhanced accessibility and utilization of NCD health services through community awareness efforts