Give an example, get an analogy!

Thank you, Mr. President, for giving a fabricated example tonight that will really help to build the trust and the all important relationship (the one you are "upholding" in your bill) between doctors and their patients.

President Obama: “And part of what we want to do is to make sure that those decisions are being made by doctors and medical experts based on evidence, based on what works. Because that's not how it's working right now. That's not -- that's not how it's working right now.Right now, doctors, a lot of times, are forced to make decisions based on the fee payment schedule that's out there. So if they're looking and -- and you come in and you've got a bad sore throat, or your child has a bad sore throat, or has repeated sore throats, the doctor may look at the reimbursement system and say to himself, "You know what? I make a lot more money if I take this kid's tonsils out." Now, that may be the right thing to do. But I'd rather have that doctor making those decisions just based on whether you really need your kid's tonsils out or whether it might make more sense just to change -- maybe they have allergies. Maybe they have something else that would make a difference.”

In return for your kindness, I have this analogy to help other Americans understand the all important relationship between citizens and their representatives.

Mrs. Jones: “And part of what we want to do is to make sure that those decisions are being made by politicians and experts based on evidence, based on what works. Because that's not how it's working right now. That's not -- that's not how it's working right now.Right now, politicians, a lot of times, are forced to make decisions based on the fee payment schedule that's out there. So if they're looking and -- and you come in and you've got a successful small business, or you have a good job, or you have repeatedly worked hard, lived within your means, and kept a good job, the politician may look at the tax system and say to himself, "You know what? I can do a lot more with their money if I take these earnings in taxes." Now, that may be the right thing to do. But I'd rather have that politician making those decisions just based on whether you really need your taxes raised or whether it might make more sense just to change -- maybe you are working so hard because they are redistributing your money. Maybe they have something else that would make a difference.”

On a medical note:
If I am taking my child to the doctor for a sore throat, I am probably seeing a pediatrician or family medicine doctor. Neither type of physician make a lot of money (they don't even meet your standard for rich). More important to your analogy, neither would be performing the surgery or reaping the monetary benefit. Finally, doesn't the bill include funding to encourage more medical school graduates to go into family practice or pediatrics? Good job leaving a bad taste in the mouths of those you are supposedly supporting.

On a personal note:
In my years interacting with doctors, personally and professionally, I have never known one to make a decision allowing their personal profit to override what they put forth, based on evidence, as the right step to take. I am sorry you have had such an experience and that this is your view of medical professionals.

Ultimately, I believe people are good. Ultimately, I believe doctors choose their profession to help others -- to serve. From your example, Sir, your true colors have shown and your mirrored reflection as a politician shines through loud and clear. Thank you. Thank you very much for this insight.