Bluewater Health is now rescheduling non-emergency appointments as it continues to deal with an intravenous contrast shortage.
The decision was made after a brief update from the supplier.
GE Healthcare told the hospital that no further shipments are expected for at least the next three weeks, contrary to its previous notification that 50 percent of its typical shipment would be received.
As a result, Medical Director of Diagnostic Imaging Dr. Youssef Almalki said the hospital will move from conserving supplies to rationing them and non-urgent patients who require contrast will have their appointments moved to a later date.
“We are continuing to maximize our efforts to maintain safe service for our community by utilizing alternative methods of imaging modalities,” said Dr. Almalki. “We are advocating to gain more clarity from GE on this international concern that is impacting the majority of hospitals across the province. Our top priority as always is to accommodate patients and continue providing the highest standard of care possible.”
The solution is used in computed tomography (CT or CAT) scans.
Dr. Almalki said Bluewater Health will continue to prioritize those scans for emergency situations, including patients experiencing possible strokes or trauma.
The hospital will be contacting patients whose upcoming CT scan and procedural appointments are impacted by the rationing of iodinated contrast media (ICM) use.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) exams with contrast are not impacted, nor are ultrasound or x-ray exams at Bluewater Health.
