I went through Mayo's Pain Mgmt. Clinic in May of 2015. I have mixed feelings about my experience. The program attempts to teach you how to "manage" your pain without opioids. It also shows you how to find alternate ways of doing things to minimize your pain. They were able to get me off Opioids the first week with minimal discomfort, which for others was traumatic. I have maintained an Opioid-free life since the class. Their approach proved to be too much to remember and maintain successfully. Although I do not take opioids for pain, I have found a lifesaving way to minimize my pain. About 2 months ago my doctor asked if I would consider Medical Marijuana as a treatment for my pain as it is available in Minnesota since August. I agreed and and after a brief visit with a state-approved MD who referred me to a state approved pharmacy to decide what form and dose would be best for me. It was advised I take a 50/50 mixture of THC and HBD orally twice daily and a 100% THC SL spray for breakthrough pain which I rarely need. I have seen MANY posts regarding their "experiences" with otc or mail order forms of low quality marijuana and have this advice.......if you haven't tried the real stuff as directed, don't knock it. No, it may not perform as satisfactorily for everyone, but that does not mean it is a bad thing.
As for cost.....in Minnesota you are to pay the doctor $250 in cash or debit card as well as another $250 for the pharmacy PLUS, for me, for both solutions I pay $250/month. the 50/50 solution alone costs $180 per month. As a deal breaker for me, I cut back on the Lyrica I take which for me was $650/month so I am actually saving money.