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Hope this is not too far off topic, but I really would like to second Marlene's suggestion to consider going out of your HMO network now for a second opinion. Especially since you indicate your dad seems to be losing hope in his current treatment.
It is sometimes difficult to convince family members to get a second opinion, especially when they feel crummy already. My mother did not have MDS, but had serious fatigue issues and anemia. She too did not want to "upset" her doctor but I finally convinced her to get a second opinion outside the HMO at a university medical center. The consulting physician recommended additional testing and follow up. The cost of the second opinion exam was $250 out of pocket. Within a week, the HMO had scheduled all the tests the consulting physician had recommended, plus assigned her to a team of specialists. It turned out to be a very good investment in my mom's health care, plus gave the family peace of mind.
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Catherine, wife of Bruce age 75; diagnosed 6/10/11 with macrocytic anemia, neutropenia and mild thrombocytopenia; BMB suggesting emerging MDS. Copper deficient. Currently receiving procrit and neuopogen injections weekly, B12 dermal cream and injections, Transfusions ~ 5 weeks.
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