@19lin I completely understand the frustrations of usability on the Connect website. We are working hard to improve it. In fact, you will see improvements coming this week and next. They can't come soon enough as far as I'm concerned. When I first started to direct the redesign of the website, there were so many things I wanted to happen immediately, but I've had to learn to be patient. It takes a team. Now I've gotten used to the site, so sometimes I am blind to its awkwardness, which makes comments like yours extremely valuable. I'm going to review the WebMD site more closely. I've also been impressed with the usability of other online community site that we are modelling. We'll get there. Thanks for sticking with us. Keep the feedback coming.

On Wednesday, we are publishing a series of "how to" instructions on Connect.

Online groups tend to disintegrate without a moderator or mentor. I love the role of moderator. It's like being a fly on the wall. I learn so much. Our primary role is to help connect people, foster the conversations and ensure respect is maintained. People can disagree, of course, and this can always be done with respect.

Like you, I believe a group around the topic of chronic pain was sorely needed (pun intended). At this point in time, the focus of Connect is to concentrate on patient-to-patient exchange. We will invite medical provider participation in the next phase of our growth.

Thank you for being an integral, frequent and supportive member of Mayo Clinic Connect.