Clown Doctors? Really?

I find this one of the most ridiculous things I have read and I have read about some lunatic ideas.  Before I rant though, let me say that I am a believer in alternative medicines such as laughter therapy but this is silly.

Apparently the University Of Haifa in Israel is offering the world's first academic degree in medical clowning.  Oh yeah I said c-l-o-w-n-i-n-g.  And in Isreal, because we all know that Israel is at the epicenter of humor.

So this "degree" features classes in the psychology of pain next to mime and juggling.  Laughter as a therapy may show positive results, so fine by me do what ever it takes to ease the patient.  However, if I am in the hospital and in pain I do not by any means want to see my physician rounding with some idiot in clown make up.  First and foremost isn't my physician supposed to instill confidence with his knowledge and honesty?  Not really what I am looking for in a clown.  If I am in the hospital, it is probably serious.  Call me crazy but I prefer to keep my prescription drugs away from my whoopie cushion.

How to you vet for entry into this degreed program?  I would think that high school grades or SAT scores wouldn't matter for the clown but would for the doctor.  Do you have to tell a joke on the interview or look good in a red nose and giant shoes?  Maybe the ability to juggle bumps you to the first choice.  Please oh please do not let clown doctor program be my son's safety school choice.

I don't believe we all have to be treated like children.  Go ahead and throw that Patch Adams movie at me.  Didn't see it nor will I.  There is a time and place and a level of intensity.  Let's grow up and stop thinking everything is a joke and must be addressed with humor.  Some things aren't funny and some experiences cannot be laughed away.