The service disruption has been caused by a shortage of the radioactive tracer used for PET scans.
The shortage reportedly resulted from delays in registering the supplier responsible for importing the required chemical by the National Medicines Regulatory Authority (NMRA). Due to this issue, the substance has not been available in the country since March 27.
PET scans are essential in identifying cancer cells accurately, measuring their activity, determining whether the disease has spread, and reviewing the progress of treatment.
Speaking on the matter, NMRA Chairman Specialist Dr. Ananda Wijewickrama said that permission had been granted last year to import the substance without formal registration.
He added that from this year onward, the NMRA decided to make registration compulsory for all suppliers. According to him, delays in submitting the necessary documents by the companies led to the present situation.
Dr. Wijewickrama further stated that approval has now been granted to import the chemical after the supplier completed registration. As a result, the required material is expected to arrive in the country soon.
