GregIL
BCG shortage status is tracked by the FDA at:
www.fda.gov/vaccines-blood-biologics/safety-availability-biologics/cber-regulated-products-current-shortages
I checked as I am post here, there is NO shortage as of 12/9/2019. It is noted that supply will "be placed on allocation" when supplies run short.
From my experience, the BIG hospitals with a well-known cancer department get BCG when my local rural clinic can't even get a call back from their supplier.
I travel up to 400 miles for an appointment at a NIH Comprehensive Cancer Center Hospital when care is not available locally. My local doc understands. She is as concerned as I am, but she is caught in the middle. There is much to be said for having a nearby doc, even if you have a GREAT relationship with, even if you also have a doc in the university hospital hours away. ASK your doc for a referral to the BIG hospital; ask if it would be helpful.
That said, I expect a prompt reply to my questions and concerns. I have found it very helpful to ask, at a first appointment where there will be ongoing appointments, " Who do I call with questions and concerns ? Do you prefer phone calls or email for non-emergency questions ? Which is the best way to get a quick reply ? It really does help to cut down on sitting for hours, hoping the phone will ring.
That also said, in the beginning we all want treatment to start tomorrow or sooner if possible. Small clinics often can't move that fast, but they are nice to have for when an emergency arises. Sometimes we, as patients, have to accept the speed of medicine at teh different levels of providers.
Stay focused on what you want to accomplish (starting BCG soon). ASK all you healthcare providers how they can help make THAT goal happen quickly. Be prepared to expand your list of providers to those who CAN help.
Sorry to hear that you are facing the all too common frustration.
Best,
Jack
