I appreciate the approach that the Health Minister is adopting towards means testing.

In my opinion, means testing is a necessary evil as I am aware of cases where those from the upper-income level choose to stay in lower class wards when they can truly afford better classes.

In a way, it is a testament to Singapore's excellent health-care system that even the lower class wards provide reliable care and no one is denied treatment, financial status notwithstanding.

However, income level may not be an accurate criterion for means testing.

Yes, it is difficult to come up with a formula that pleases everyone, but the key question is what is the income level that best defines higher income?

The HDB uses a combined income of $8,000 as the threshold for a home loan. And despite many calls to review this amount, the HDB has been unwilling to budge. A case in point: the Boon Keng flats.

The top selling price of $700,000 would mean that one has to fork out cash (in the scenario of maximum repayment tenure plus maximum loan amount). And it is meant to be sold to couples not earning more than $8,000 a month.

Thus far, there have been promises to help middle-income Singaporeans. But the question, again, is what income levels constitute middle class?

These households are often the most squeezed because they have to service the loan on their HDB flats, pay for parents' medical bills and now possibly, enjoy less subsidies with means testing.

Using housing type for retirees may not be a good idea as many Singaporeans are asset rich but cash poor.

However, I am reassured by the Health Minister's comment that he would be especially generous in deciding on the income level so that, for once, middle-income households do not feel left out.

At the end of the day, there must be enough flexibility built into the system such that in the long-run, health-care subsidies really go to those that genuinely deserve it. But this has to be carefully balanced with the desire to help the middle class.

I am totally for helping the lower-income households. The high-income households, in my opinion, do not require the Government's help.

I have every faith in the Health Minister's ability to come up with a generous system that does not punish the middle class.

Jason Chiam Chiah Sern