Important Message Regarding Global Shortage of Contrast Media for Scans

Dear St. Luke’s Patients,

Due to unprecedented COVID-related supply chain disruptions in China, all hospitals in the United States are experiencing a shortage of contrast media (sometimes referred to as X-ray dye) used to perform CAT or CT scans. As at all U.S. hospitals, St. Luke’s ability to perform these scans in all but the most critical cases will be limited until these supply chain issues are corrected. This shortage has been caused by the Chinese government’s COVID lockdown of Shanghai, where most of the world’s supply of contrast media is manufactured and then subsequently distributed by GE Healthcare and Bracco. This disruption is expected to last until at least the end of June.

St. Luke’s is exploring various strategies to conserve contrast media, including using other imaging technologies and materials and postponing non-emergency scans. As always, we are 100% committed to providing the best possible care to our patients. We will continue to keep you informed about this issue. If you have any questions or concerns, please call us at 1-866-STLUKES, option 2.