By Hayley Robinson

A GP has been suspended from work indefinitely.

Dr Chandrika Ramu, who is the only doctor at The High Street Surgery, in Milton Regis, Sittingbourne, could be off work for six months while an investigation is carried out.

Dr Ramu, who has been working as a GP for more than 27 years, will then have to attend a hearing about her fitness to practice.

Despite her suspension Dr Ramu is still responsible for the overall running of the practice and is therefore allowed to be at the surgery.

However, she is not allowed to consult with patients. NHS Eastern and Coastal Kent is providing a locum to work at the surgery during Dr Ramu’s suspension.
There are approximately 2,800 patients registered with the practice.

A spokesman for the Trust said: "This suspension is standard practice when an allegation is made against a GP or any other healthcare worker.

"The PCT’s first duty is to our patients, and, while an inquiry into any allegation is made, it is our practice to remove the person being investigated until we are quite sure they are fit to continue practice."

Dr Ramu said: "I am on long term leave and there is a notice in the surgery telling people that."

The reason for the suspension, imposed on October 7, is not known.