Dear CAMRT members,
This brief update on the status of the NTP reactor in South Africa is in follow up to a message we sent on December 8, 2017.
Through the Association of Imaging Producers & Equipment Suppliers (AIPES), we have learned that the NTP reactor is continuing its discussion with its regulator and has not resumed production.
At this time, the Government of Canada has been informed that there is likely to be a shortfall of between 1,000 and 1,200 6-Day Curies per week in the global Mo-99 supply for the remainder of 2017 and through January 2018. This would amount to between 12-15% of the global supply. It is unclear at this time to what extent this shortfall will directly impact the Canadian supply chain. However, a 2015 study found that our health system could absorb up to a 25% reduction in supply without significant impact on patients.
Producers and suppliers are continuing to work collaboratively during this period. Given circumstances, it is recommended that particular attention be made to the efficient usage of medical isotopes.
For your reference, a link to the Supply Management Application to Rank Uses of Technetium-99m (The “S.M.A.R.T.” Tool) is noted here: https://www.cadth.ca/SMART-Tool
CAMRT, with its partners in the Government of Canada is monitoring the situation closely. We will keep you informed as we receive updated information.
As we mentioned in the last update, we are interested to hear if you are experiencing any disruption to your own local supply of medical isotopes. Please send these updates, or any other feedback to Christopher Topham, Director of Advocacy and Communications at ctopham@camrt.ca.
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