“I’ve asked for advice in relation to helium, how much is used and what impact the war in Iran may have for access to MRI scans,” he said.
“At this stage, the focus is very much on access to fuel. The longer this goes on, there will be other supply chain disruptions which could impact different parts of the healthcare sector, the ministry and Health NZ are working together with all of Government about what that might be.”
Brown said he had not yet received the advice.
MRI scans are used to produce detailed 3D scans of soft tissues to diagnose and monitor conditions. They are often used in cancer diagnosis.
Health NZ’s Executive National Director, People and Culture, Health and Safety, Robyn Shearer said the organisation was “monitoring and tracking our medical supplies including helium. 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,” Shearer said.