Just the FACTs, Volume 3
Hello to a changed world from the last time I wrote to you. As much as I’d like to talk about something else, everything we are doing is affected by COVID-19. You will see a lot of this newsletter deals with cancellations and delays. One silver lining from a programmatic standpoint is the six-month accreditation extension to all programs but that will fly by, I’m sure.
Practice changes are coming fast and the FACT FAQs are being updated frequently by Dr. Warkentin, please note the links for the FDA and always pay attention to the ASTCT for evolving clinical practice guidance. FACT is not determining these practice changes and there are not changes in standards as the practice evolves. The principles that the standards reflect remain the same.
Convalescent plasma is an exciting potential therapy for our patients, and I’m aware that our cell therapy teams have been integrally involved, from collecting plasma to making collection kit components in biosafety cabinets, so kudos to all who are stepping up/stepping outside their roles to help our patients.
Keep physical distancing and remember, just flattening the curve is like your parachute slowing you down, it doesn’t mean it’s time to take off your parachute at 5,000 feet, there’s still a ways to go . . . I’m sure I’m preaching to the choir, but keep your patients, your kids, your grandparents all safe while keeping yourself as safe as possible. To use one more simile, the canoe gets to its destination only if everyone paddles in the same direction. Let’s get our shared canoe through these rough waters paddling together.
Sincerely,
Dennis Gastineau, MD
FACT President
