GNYHA has learned of a temporary shortage of GE Healthcare’s iodinated contrast media—specifically, all concentrations and formulations of its Omnipaque™ (iohexol) products that are manufactured in a single facility in Shanghai, China (Shanghai is currently under COVID-19 lockdown). While the facility has reopened and ramped up production, GE anticipates an 80% reduction in supplies for the next 6-8 weeks.
GNYHA is in contact with the New York State Department of Health, the Department of Health and Human Services, and supply chain partners to ensure that we have the most up-to-date supply information for you.
Below are potential conservation strategies to consider:
- Evaluate the amount of on-hand inventory
- Seek other means of securing contrast media including alternate wholesalers and distributors
- Evaluate incoming CT and x-ray orders to determine if an alternate imaging modality can be utilized
- Discuss protocol options with radiology leadership, radiology staff, and ordering physicians including Emergency Department physicians, cardiologists, and outpatient imaging providers to ensure protocols are evaluated for the appropriate use of contrast media
- Where appropriate, consider adjusting scanning protocols to scan without contrast and injector protocols to reduce the amount of contrast dose
- Communicate opportunities for conservation and awareness of wasted contrast media to CT, x-ray, interventional, and catheterization lab technologists
- Develop a communication plan for referring physicians and all imaging departments; leverage appropriate use criteria for when to utilize contrast-based CT examinations
GNYHA will continue to update you about the ongoing shortage of GE contrast media