• They would like free treatment, just like HIV patients.

Sickle Cell patients have demanded free Medical Care attention the same way HIV patients have access to free medication.

Speaking during the World Sickle Cell Day on June 19, 2023, Health stakeholders have requested that the government subsidize sickle cell medications in order to lessen illness burden. The patients are complaining that the medication is expensive.

“Last year I was admitted to Siaya Hospital. We were told to buy the medication equipment. We bought medicine and syringes. There was even a time my medication cost sh. 750 per day for two weeks,” said one of the patients.

To them, they would like free treatment, just like HIV patients.

“HIV patients are being given free ARVs. This disease is inborn, but we do not get much help from the government. Some people are born with HIV, while others contract them out of carelessness along the way, yet the government still support their medication,” added the patient.

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The patients are frustrated that it is unfortunate that Sickle Cell Disease does not get much attention and help from the government just like HIV.

They are urging the government to heed their plea since the Sickle Cell medication have been unavailable in the market , thus giving them a hard time when seeking.