Blood test tubes shortage: Normal service on Island

No issues at Island's main hospital

Noble's Hospital has enough blood test tubes to retain a normal testing service.

Government says critical shortages in the UK are not currently affecting the Isle of Man.

A spokesperson has told Manx Radio efforts are in place to ensure a healthy stock level at all times given the Island's remote location.

The UK's supply chain for the tubes is currently running very low forcing many hospitals to restrict blood tests to all but emergency cases.

It's a global problem involving supply and freight logistics.

The crisis has been exacerbated in the UK by the closure of the primary production facility at the country's main supplier Becton Dickinson.

The plant is undergoing a two-week maintenance programme.

A Noble's Hospital spokesperson said that while there are no problems at the moment it is a good time to remind people to carefully consider whether a test is appropriate, and essential, during the current shortage.