From what I've read, Bitcoin now charges high transaction fee and long transaction wait time so it can't presently be used:
a) for a conversion from Bitcoin to cash?
or b) purchases using Bitcoin?

Right now using btc for money transfer isn't the best option, txn fees are high indeed, and even if you pay $10-15 it might take a while for the transaction to be confirmed.
On the other hand, if you want to transfer a big amount of money - using btc will still be more reasonable and cost you less money. than money transfer with credit cards. Plus, if time isn't of importance to you - you can always pay a minimal transaction fee, even around $1, just be prepared that it might take weeks
