Ethical Sensitivity and the Goals of Medicine: Resisting the Tides of Medical Deprofessionalisation

There is a growing concern that, like in many developed countries, medical practice in Singapore is fast losing its role and status as a profession. The commodification and industrialisation of health care, and weakening of its ethical foundations are among the main forces threatening to deprofessionalise the practice of medicine. To overcome these challenges, an honest and introspective review of the goals of medicine and an affirmation of the ethical values of medicine are needed in order to reinstate the unique role of medicine in our society. Important steps to take include adopting a patient-centered philosophy and practice culture, promoting and emphasising ethical