Very informative and to the exact point of our dilema.(CHRONIC PAIN SUFFERERS). I think it's time to come together and tell our representatives in WASHINGTON D.C. to start doing their jobs and Represent us as well. They cannot and shouldn't pick and choose which plan is acceptable. They are NOT Dr.s. I am very concerned about my future without my medicine. I was not very productive before them.

You know it is very interesting that original treatment methodologies have gotten lost throughout this hysteria. The original method written by the American medical Association was when a patient presents with chronic pain they should be referred to a pain specialist for evaluation, procedures and medication, and titration of that medication. Once The patient is stabilized on the medication the patient should be referred back to the primary care doctor for continuation of the protocol established by the pain doctor.

Somehow this whole protocol has gotten lost in the fervor of this hysterical opioid situation. It is past time for us chronic pain patients to stand up and take back what is ours which is the right to be treated properly for chronic pain.

Remind your Pain Management Doctor that the “guidelines” that he is following was intended STRICTLY for Primary Care Physicians. And anyway they are intended to be “GUIDELINES” not the law. Tell your Doctor to grow a pair and take care of your suffering!

Get a second opinion. Talk with your insurance about seeking another doctor. I saw an orthopedic specialist who shamed me for my weight. I was called grossly obese and told that I'm in need of a total knee replacement but he wouldn't touch me due to being grossly obese. I asked him well doc can you explain to me just how I'm supposed to exercise to lose the weight when I'm in such pain that I cry and it hurts to move. His reply was gastric bypass. I looked at him and said no thank you. My paternal aunt had that and now has a lot of medical issues she never had before. I came in here to find out about my knee not be preached to about my weight.

I need a 7 level fusion due to wear and tear on my scoliotic back. But I'm too old for it. I'm in severe pain every day and night. I thought my Pain Mgmt. Doc would help me stay comfortable. But he won't prescribe anything over 5mg hydrocodone. Says there is nothing else he can do. Refuses to help me. Not sure where to turn, but def will seek a second opinion. Don't think the original intent was to deny medication to chronic pain patients. I see why folks seek steeet drugs.