Hi Debbie, Proximity to the clinic where you’ll have the transplant is helpful. There are frequent trips (and followups for years) and dending on the clinic, there are different timelines for the procedure.

I had two options in my state for transplant. Both were large teaching clinics with a great deal of experience with transplants. However, we live 4.5 hours from Mayo-Rochester and my husband and I decided, along with my local hematologist oncologist, that was where I should go. We never regretted that decision.

We relocated to Rochester for about 4 months where Mayo’s SCT program is outpatient. We had to remain near the clinic for 100 days so we ‘leased’ a hotel suite at a Residence Inn. It became our home away from home where my husband set up an office for himself, he hiked daily, cooked meals for us, accompanied me to all my appts, etc., and I had a place to recoup within 2 blocks of the clinic.

With your clinic, you’ll be in the hospital for a month and nearby for 2 weeks. Each clinic has their own protocols and expectations for caregivers. I needed one 24/7 for that 100 days. You may not need one for that month you’re in the hospital. So that will be a good question to ask.
~When and for how long do I need a caregiver?

The advantage of a large clinic is if you have any unexpected issues that come up, there is a deep bench of specialists to assist the transplant team in patient care.
You may want to ask;
~If there is an issue that requires another specialist how easy is it to have collaboration between doctors?

Insurance is another big consideration. I was 65 at the time so Medicare did cover everything. Had I stayed in the state, they allowed $10,000 towards lodging. But we opted for Rochester so we did end up paying our lodging but the cost of the transplant procedure, brief hospital stays, meds, procedures, etc., were covered.

It’s important you feel comfortable with your transplant doctor and your team. They become your new family and the doctor calls all the shots behind the scene. so trusting this person is vital.
You’ve had a 2nd opinion and they’ve agreed with your diagnosis and treatment plan. So if you’re happy with your current hospital, there is comfort in familiarity. And having it nearby is helpful because you’ll be a frequent flyer. ☺️

One big question to ask is about follow up appointments.
~How long will followup continue??
I know of some clinics where the patient is no longer followed after 2 years. With Mayo, I was told “We’re married for life” by my transplant doctor/team. They meant it. I’m 5 years out and still in contact with my doctor and his team. I am just now moving to an annual visit after 5 years.

It’s hard to know what other questions to ask because it’s such a personal consideration for each patient. But I found this really helpful guide from Be the Match (procurement center for marrow donors). This will give you some ideas on what’s important for you:

I expect you’ll have some answers and actually more questions after your next visit with your doctor. So let me know what you find out, ok?