A union for scientists says its vital New Zealand's keeps some extra helium on hand to ensure cancer scanning treatment can continue at full capacity.

Health officials are closely monitoring how the Middle East conflict could affect access to medical items.

Minister Simeon Brown has been seeking advice, particularly around the supply of helium, which is critical for MRI machines.

APEX national secretary Deborah Powell told Ryan Bridge there's no current supply issues and everything is operating as normal, but it's important to look ahead.

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