Public-Private Partnerships in breaking down cancer funding

As the prevalence of cancer among younger generations continues to rise, the need for increased understanding of cancer-related information and improved access to funding for cancer treatment becomes more urgent. Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) have emerged as a crucial tool in breaking down barriers to cancer funding. CNBC Africa had an insightful conversation with Muthoni Mate, the Founder of Cancer Cafe, to delve deeper into the challenges faced by cancer patients and possible solutions to bridge the funding gap for cancer treatment. Mate highlighted the importance of effective communication in educating communities about cancer, emphasizing the need to simplify complex medical terminologies to ensure better comprehension. She emphasized the significance of creating a supportive environment through conversations, particularly over meals, to foster a sense of community and bridge the gap between technical experts and the general public. Mate also shed light on the various funding options available to cancer patients, from public financing through National Health Insurance Schemes to community-based crowdfunding initiatives like 'harambees.' However, she noted the limitations in existing funding mechanisms, particularly in African countries where comprehensive health financing schemes are lacking, leading to significant out-of-pocket expenses for many families. To address these challenges, Mate emphasized the need for a multi-sectorial and multidisciplinary approach to cancer funding, stressing the importance of multi-stakeholder engagements, including the private sector, public sector, and patients themselves. She highlighted the importance of making cancer care patient-centric, focusing on equitable, affordable, and accessible services to ensure that patients receive the support they need to continue living a good quality of life. Mate underscored the impact of cancer on the productive population, calling for proactive government initiatives to bridge the funding accessibility gap for cancer patients and prevent the loss of young, talented individuals due to the disease. In conclusion, Mate's insights shed light on the critical role of PPPs in addressing the challenges of cancer funding and underscore the importance of collaborative efforts to ensure better outcomes for cancer patients.