Helium shortage from Middle East may pose new challenge for India’s healthcare system: reports

A global shortage of helium, driven by disruptions in the Middle East, is emerging as a new problem for India’s healthcare sector, raising concerns over rising diagnostic costs and potential delays in MRI scans.

Reports citing sources claim that the shortage is beginning to strain MRI supply chains, with hospitals and imaging centres bracing for increased costs. 

Helium, a non-renewable gas essential for cooling MRI magnets, is largely imported by India from Qatar, making the country vulnerable to supply disruptions.

The gas, a byproduct of natural gas processing, is closely linked to LNG production. As instability affects supply routes and production in the Middle East, the impact is now being felt across global markets. While the situation has not yet reached a critical stage, executives warn that prolonged disruptions could significantly escalate costs and expose weaknesses in globalised medical supply chains.

As per reports, manufacturers have begun accelerating the development of helium-free MRI systems as a long-term alternative. However, these solutions are still in the process of wider adoption.

The ripple effects are also being seen in the broader medical supply ecosystem. Medical device makers have warned of possible shortages of essential hospital consumables — including IV bags, lines, urine bags, cannulas and syringes — as early as next month, with inventories reportedly down to 15–20 days.

The situation is further complicated by shortages of industrial gases used in manufacturing and rising energy costs, forcing companies to shift to more expensive alternatives such as diesel and additional power sources.