Viral post mocking Rs 1,300 Earwax removal fee draws sharp response from The Liver Doc

According to Hindustan Times, the entrepreneur commented, “ENT doctor removed my kid’s ear wax in 30 secs, charged whooping Rs. 1300, that too after a ‘discount’. No wonder her clinic was emptier than Ritvi's ear.” The now-deleted post, which allegedly featured a photo of the child holding a small piece of cotton, quickly went viral on the social media platform X, amassing over 1.5 million views and drawing more than 2,500 comments, most of which criticised his dismissive tone towards healthcare professionals.

In his post, he appeared to trivialise the consultation, implying that the medical fee was unjustified given the simplicity of the procedure. The tone did not sit well with many, including a well-known liver specialist, Dr Cyriac Abby Philips, also known as The Liver Doc, who responded with biting sarcasm, suggesting that Jain should consider using a “traditional cleaner” next time instead of seeking professional medical care. “Next time, you can use a traditional earwax cleaner. You'll find them across the street. And not waste any money. Hope this helps,” he stated.

The remark struck a chord with the medical community and the general public alike, sparking widespread discussion about the value of medical expertise and the growing trend of undermining healthcare professionals on social media. Many users condemned the post, pointing out that while the procedure may appear minor, it still requires clinical skill, sterilised equipment, and a trained eye to avoid potential complications.

One user wrote, “You are not paying for 30 seconds. You are paying for the skill to do it in 30 seconds. If you have a problem with cost, try doing it free yourself.” According to the Daily, another sharply remarked, “There are people who sit on the road and do it for INR 50. Next time, you should visit them. I would say the doctor has undercharged.”

While one of the users stated, “This post has touched a raw nerve amongst medicos. See how doctors come to the rescue of their fraternity. It is their birthright to get cuts from pharma cos.., diagnostic centres & hospitals for references and exploit patients, but when questioned about the robbery, they get mad?” The doctor clarified his stance, stating, “Hey, dodo, no doctor is asking anyone to come to them. Doctors are not advertising. Don't come to hospitals. You can go to the hakeem sitting under a tree near your house, serving jadi bhooti when you have chest pain. Please do that. And then disappear.”