NI Radioisotopes shortage explained as heart and cancer patients face treatment delays or cancellations
Cancer and heart patients in Northern Ireland are facing treatment delays or cancellations due to a “severe shortage” of radioisotopes.
Radioisotopes are used in diagnosing health conditions, such as cancers and heart issues. Stormont's Health Minister Mike Nesbitt confirmed on Wednesday that Northern Ireland is being impacted by a UK-wide and international shortage.
Patients have been warned that the severe shortage of radioisotopes that the UK is facing has the potential to cause "significant disruption" in the coming weeks.
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The affected radioisotopes are mainly used for diagnosing cancers, including prostate and breast cancer. They are also used for imaging of organ function in scans, including for the heart.
The shortage has been caused by a sudden global disruption to the manufacturing capacity of certain radioisotopes, which are produced by nuclear reactors. Some of these reactors are currently out of service to allow for repair work.
Two that supply the UK’s health system are expected to restart production during the second week of next month, with deliveries from these reactors set to resume in mid-November.
In a statement to MLAs on Wednesday, Mr Nesbitt said his department is working with the UK Government’s Department of Health and Social Care on the issue.
Mr Nesbitt said: "I know how difficult this will be for affected patients while we face this supply issue. This issue is different in nature to normal supply chain problems due to the unique challenges radioisotope shortages present.
"Despite efforts to limit the impact, there will be delays for patients accessing services which rely on this affected radioisotope, with potential cancellations.
"In the most urgent cases patients will be prioritised for care while supplies are limited. They may also be offered the necessary procedure at another hospital. In some cases, it may be possible to offer patients an alternative scan which does not rely on molybdenum-99 / technetium-99m.
"Clinicians will review patients on a case-by-case basis to discuss options with their patients directly. If any patient is concerned about their treatment, they should discuss this with their clinician at the earliest opportunity."
SDLP Opposition Health Spokesperson Colin McGrath has expressed concern for patients following the news: “I want to express my empathy for those patients and families who are facing uncertainty and distress during this time. It is worrying to learn of the potential delays and cancellations that may arise as a result of this shortage of radioisotopes.”
The South Down MLA added: “While I welcome the Minister's efforts to coordinate with the Department of Health and Social Care in London and other devolved administrations to manage this issue, it is imperative that we hold the government accountable for ensuring that patient care is not compromised.
“That the UK relies on limited international sources for essential medical supplies seems untenable. We must have a more robust strategy to secure a reliable supply of critical medical resources here.
“I would also urge the Minister and departmental officials to ensure that all patients receive clear communication regarding their treatment options.
“It is vital that medical staff engage directly with patients to discuss potential alternatives, such as different scans or procedures, to mitigate anxiety and provide reassurance during this uncertain period.
“The Minister must remain open and transparent about ongoing efforts to resolve this situation and to ensure the well-being of patients above all else.”
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