A POPULAR doctor has been barred from practising as a GP at NHS practices in the town.

Dr Ayakannu Kandiah practised at Sparcells Surgery, in West Swindon, until this week when a regulatory panel of the Swindon Primary Care Trust (PCT) took the decision to remove him from the Swindon GP performers’ list.

It comes after a General Medical Council (GMC) fitness to practice hearing last week in Manchester, resolved to place 14 conditions on Dr Kandiah’s registration as a GP, which run for 18 months.

This follows allegations that his performance in a knowledge test and practical skills examination in basic life support were unacceptable.

It was also alleged that his performance in simulated surgery gave rise to a cause for concern in the areas of urethral syndrome, a sexually transmitted disease which affects women, and diabetic control. Dr Kandiah, known as Kandy to his patients, is appealing against the PCT decision.

When approached by the Adver he said he was preparing to make a statement early next week and did not want to comment at this stage.

The GP is popular with the town’s Asian community and has been involved in several fundraising and community events over the years.

In 2008 he produced guidelines for parents to help prevent child deaths.

The report from the GMC hearing determined that Dr Kandiah’s “fitness to practise is impaired by reason of his deficient professional performance” but he “would not be considered a danger to patients nor would cause them harm”.

It also stated: “The panel has no concern about him remaining at the Sparcells Surgery as it has heard that he has an effective support system in place.”

Some of Dr Kandiah’s patents also wrote to the GMC in support of the beleaguered GP.

Conditions upon his registration included confining his practices to NHS premises only unless an educational supervisor sanctions out-of-hours work or on-call duties.

Dr Liz Mearns, chairwoman of PCT Commissioning Committee, said: “We have a duty of care to Swindon residents and work hard to ensure they receive the best quality of care.

“This includes minimising any risk to patient safety.

“Following the outcome of the PCT Regulatory panel the decision was taken to remove Dr Kandiah from the Swindon GP performers’ list.

He is currently appealing against this decision, so we cannot comment further until the appeal has been heard.

“We will take into account the GMC’s judgment and recommendations, and will work closely with all parties involved.

“In the interim, Primary Care Services will still be provided from the Sparcells practice supported by other qualified doctors.

“There are no plans to close this practice.”

If anyone has concerns regarding this matter or any other issue contact the PCT’s confidential Patient Advice and Liaison Service on 01793 708758.