Helium Supply Risk USGS Comment: MITA
- AKAP
- Mar 16, 2023
- 3 min read
The Medical Imaging & Technology Alliance (MITA) is writing in response to the USGS RFI regarding risks to the supply of helium, which is essential for MRI technology used in medical care and research. The industry has seen shortages due to various factors, and the cost of replenishing helium in MRI systems can be prohibitive. MITA stresses the importance of helium availability to patient care and medical research, and argues that it must be available in adequate quantities at a reasonable cost, with an appropriate portion earmarked for MRI systems. There are over 10,000 MRI systems installed in the United States, each containing, on average, approximately 1,000 - 2,000 liters of liquid helium that must be periodically replenished.