Recently, a doctor from Chengdu, Sichuan province triggered public debate after posting on Weibo a photo of his 10,000-RMB ($1,451) down jacket.

Some argued that it is inappropriate for a doctor to show off his wealth, because doctors are considered to have high moral standards; such behavior could cause more conflicts between patients and doctors, they argued. However, many believe that the man is not at fault since he's making money through his own expertise.

The doctor, Ren Liming, actually published his assets on Dec. 6, despite the fierce debate, claiming that he spends about 200,000 RMB on clothing each year. Ren owns three apartments in Sichuan, and said in an interview with Chengdu Economic Daily (CED) that he plans to buy a fourth.

According to Ren, the Wenchuan earthquake in 2008 changed his views of consumption. He used to be frugal, but now he is willing to spend money on the things that he loves. He said this attitude makes him feel younger.

Ren's annual income is over 1 million RMB, including his salary plus income from part-time jobs. In addition, he has invested money in his friend's company. Ren disapproves of doctors who always complain about their low income, discouraging medical students from dreaming big. He believes that every medical student can achieve both professional and economic success as long as they devote enough energy to their studies.

In addition, Ren told CED that high incomes for doctors could actually ease conflicts between patients and physicians because off-the-books income would be less attractive to medical professionals if they earned decent money from their primary occupation.