Supply issues stemming from the US-Iran conflict are yet to significantly impact the medical sector, Pharmac says.
While a small number of supply issues had been identified so far, it said it was working with suppliers, Health New Zealand, Medsafe, and the logistics sector to identify risks early and secure alternative products if necessary.
The Middle East is a key producer of helium, which is used to cool MRI machines and treat emphysema.
It has been confirmed supplies have been secured from the United States via Australia.
BOC Southern business manager Simon Calvert said the company had a “strong working relationship with New Zealand Health”, to ensure medical supplies would always be given priority over other uses, such as party balloons.
Helium is also used industrially for welding, vehicle air bags, fibre optics and semiconductor manufacture.
“We certainly won't let the medical system run short.”
The gas is distributed by road from its Auckland and Christchurch centres.
“If helium runs out — [it’s because] the diesel’s run out ... but we’re not in a position where we’re concerned about running out of diesel at this point.”
The industry had learnt from past experience when the gas was being supplied from Australia, allowing it to better manage supply, he said.
“That situation did put some pressure on the helium market in Australasia, and prices moved quite dramatically because of that. But it also allowed us to essentially prioritise customers.
“For example, if we get into a similar position, we would stop supplying balloon gas.”
Since the company has switched its supply lines from Australia, through its US-based parent company Linde, unrest in the Middle East would not impact its supply in the same way as international competitors shipping via the Strait of Hormuz.
Te Whatu Ora health and safety national executive director of people and culture Robyn Shearer said it was monitoring the organisation’s medical supplies — including helium for 33 MRI scanners.
‘‘We have good stocks of medical supplies currently.
‘‘We continue to proactively engage with our suppliers, and we are working as part of the all of government planning response to ensure medical supplies are prioritised should it be necessary.’’
RHCNZ Medical Imaging Group chief executive Steve Carden said it was working closely with suppliers but not seeing any impact on its services.
“Helium is only required in very rare circumstances — for example, during an MRI ‘quench’, when the magnetic field warms unexpectedly and the system safely shuts down, releasing helium used to maintain cooling.’’
The RHCNZ Medical Imaging Group operates Pacific Radiology.
Toni McDonald
