Doctor-Kicking Patient Called in For Questioning (Video)

PHAYAO — Jeered by many — yet cheered by a few — it was the kick seen round the internet Saturday.

Former mayor Surakiat Phetpradub, 66, was summoned to appear Wednesday after admitting that he was indeed the man in a viral video seen kicking his much younger doctor right in the neck at a hospital in the northern province of Phayao on the night of Aug. 6.

Surakiat said it was a righteous kick because the doctor, 30-year-old Thongchai Muangkhum, did not treat him properly during his visit to Maechai Hospital.

By Thursday, Thongchai had filed a charge of assault against Surakiat, two days before security camera footage of the incident went viral Saturday to wide condemnation.

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Speaking to reporters Saturday, Surakiat said the clip did not fairly show what happened because it didn’t capture sound; therefore, no one could hear Thongchai speak to him in a loud, aggressive manner.

“I am discussing with the Phayao Lawyer Council to see what can I do, as the video only has the image but not the sound. It has affected my image,” he said.

Public Health official Sophon Mekthon on Sunday said a report on the incident indicated Surakiat raged against the physician because he pressed his stomach during examination, though he had told him his pain was in his chest.

Thongchai declined to be interviewed for this story.

Thongchai said he had waited five days before filing a police complaint because he was waiting for an apology that never came, according to Lt. Col. Jaroon Muangmoon.

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Surakiat was not without a few supporters who said he struck a blow against imperious physicians everywhere.

“I totally understand him. I am someone who used to feel like doing this,” wrote Youtuber user Duang Monjita. “When a doctor just listened to my heartbeat two times then said I had gastroesophageal reflux disease without even checking my medical record. I almost cried!”

Nevertheless, the Medical Council of Thailand on Monday issued a statement supporting Thongchai and calling for measures protecting physicians on duty.