The American Society of Nuclear Cardiology said it is keeping a close eye on the potential for coronavirus to disrupt the global supply of molybdenum-99, President Sharmila Dorbala, MD, wrote in a blog post on Monday.
ASNC said it is monitoring recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and World Health Organization, and is in “close contact” with industry partners regarding the potential for travel bans to disrupt Mo-99 deliveries. More than 80% of nuclear imaging procedures in the U.S. require Technetium-99m—which is derived from its parent radioisotope Mo-99—according to the FDA.
These industry partners, the cardiology society noted, describe the situation as “fluid” and are constantly assessing possible disruptions in the worldwide supply chain. As it stands, however, Dorbala assured that there are no reported shortfalls.
“At this time, no expected supply shortages have been reported, and the industry is exploring all options to ensure continued reliability,” Dorbala said in the post. “ASNC will remain in close contact with our industry partners and keep you updated.”
As part of its announcement, ASNC also said that is has canceled all of its live educational programs that were scheduled to begin Monday, March 16, and run through May 31. The organization is looking at alternative formats to continue this programming in the future.
Dorbala noted that members will receive more updates on how COVID-19 may impact the Mo-99 supply; potential telecardiology implementation suggestions and prior authorization and reimbursement mechanisms with regard to COVID-19.
Matt joined Chicago’s TriMed team in 2018 covering all areas of health imaging after two years reporting on the hospital field. He holds a bachelor’s in English from UIC, and enjoys a good cup of coffee and an interesting documentary.