I think if you want a change, you are going to need to get really assertive and become your own best advocate. Maybe it is time for either a second opinion at Mayo Jacksonville, National Jewish Health, or another multi specialty center.

Or a heart to heart with your current doctor where you get definite answers. Here are a few sample questions to get you started...

Why the Big 3 now?
What does my current show - cavities, other evidence of worsening infection?
What do the current sputum culture results show? What strain of NTM, colony count, antibiotic susceptibility?
What are the other concerning symptoms?
Are you willing to work in concert with Mayo, NJH or an infectious disease specialist?
Are you willing to try a 6 month course of 7% saline plus airway clearance, then recheck CT and sputum for improvement?

It is difficult for most of us to question authority, but you have obviously done a lot of studying and thinking - time to put your knowledge to work.

Remember MAC and Bronchiectasis are "rare diseases " and many doctors see few cases. Often a doc in that situation will resort to the standard protocol- for simplicity, or in fear of failure to treat leading to a bad outcome.

Let me know how you decide to proceed.
Sue