I refer to the letter by Heal Thyself on the issue of antibiotic prescribing by general practitioners (GPs).

Heal Thyself is obviously the typical Malaysian consumer, voicing out his dissatisfaction. But he is not doing the right thing himself, that is, to request the doctor for a antibiotic-less treatment.

The kind doctor would be more than willing to agree to this wise suggestion. Heal Thyself could always put aside the antibiotics, for the doctor is not forcing it down his throat (if so, then I agree he has a strong case).

In practice, it is usually the patient who adamantly insists that antibiotics be given, even for trivial conditions like running nose and coughs. Their reason: 'Why else are we visiting you and not the sinseh or bomoh?

Heal Thyself gave examples from the US, etc. and quoting their unattainably high standards of excellence. But you have to agree the typical consumer there is better informed and not half as insecure as the typical Malaysian.

Look around us, the results of citizen apathy, ignorance and shortsightedness are plentiful.

And did you say you paid RM35 - RM50 for consultation plus medication? Here the kampung people only pay RM12 - RM20, even with antibiotics, and it's also Malaysia.

Do appreciate first the differences in lifestyles, medical prescription strategies and costs all over the country - and only then the rest of world.