We are constantly being reminded that our health system is one of the best in this region. However, the recent series of unwanted medical accidents just continue to display the substandard medical treatment we are offering our fellow citizens who could not afford to seek treatment overseas where accountability and responsibility is upheld to the highest standard.

The Klang General Hospital incident was very unfortunate and only the parents of the poor child can understand the pain and trauma. The little girl's life has been ruined completely. This is worsened by the inconsistency of the message provided by the hospital's director. There is also the alleged lack of professionalism. This lack of accountability is more common than we would like to believe. Let's not forget the husband who lost his wife and nearly his baby daughter in another recent case. Has there been any proper investigation?

The attitude of medical professionals in this country is appalling. In general, these doctors studied hard and eventually become specialists and consultants. But they were not taught good professional attitudes in medical school. Many government senior specialists would not want to come in on weekends or for emergency cases as they feel it is too burdensome for the 'small' salaries they are receiving.

They are also not guiding their juniors appropriately. There are so few good mentors around as most of them have gone over to the private sector or overseas. The reasons for which l do not need to repeat here as it has been debated for years.

This country does not have a strong medical disciplinary board. Many unethical and dishonest medical professionals are only let off with a slight tap on the wrist. In Singapore, when a doctor - regardless of his or her status or seniority - is found guilty of gross negligence, the republics' medical disciplinary board will immediately take action and suspend the doctor if necessary.

However, over here, this is almost impossible particularly when one is a specialist. There is always either no action or lack of transparency. In the end, the doctor continues to do what he or she has been doing with little change in attitude.

If we truly want to progress, it is now time for the medical profession to change their attitude. Doctors should realise that one day they themselves may be treated negligently, only then to regret that they can't seek justice because of the system.