Astronomical fees

It came as a shock to me to learn, through newspaper reports, how much fees are being charged by oncologists (i.e cancer specialists in Singapore). After paying the astronomical fees, many patients still died.

I understand that top lawyers are also astronomical fees - way beyond what an ordinary person can bear. It seems that a senior lawyer will charge in one day, what most people will earn in 3 to 6 months. This type of fees will destroy a society.

I respect the action taken by the Singapore Medical Council to address a recent case of alleged over-charging, but it seemed that the practice has been rampant - from the testimony of the other medical specialists.  How did Singapore get into this sorry state?

It is the duty of the government to govern a society to be fair and just, rather than to have some people get away with as much loot as they can. I hope that more action can be taken against excessive charges, not only by professionals but also business corporations.

Tan Kin Lian