Cricklade Surgery Placed in Special Measures Following Concerns Over Missed Kidney Disease Diagnoses

A GP surgery in North Wiltshire has been placed into special measures following an inspection by the Care Quality Commission (CQC).

Cricklade Surgery, located near Swindon, has been given an overall rating of “Inadequate” by the regulator.

The practice, led by Principal GP Dr Lanil De Silva, provides care to around 3,400 patients under a contract with NHS England. It also operates a branch service at Ashton Keynes Village Hall.

The CQC inspection identified several concerns about the quality of care. Among the most significant findings was that up to 70 patients may have experienced a missed diagnosis of chronic kidney disease (CKD).

What did the CQC find?

Following its inspection in November 2025, the CQC placed the practice into special measures.

Among their findings, inspectors reported that key processes and policies relating to health and safety and fire safety were not effective. The report also raised concerns about infection prevention and control measures, recruitment processes, and the monitoring of patients with long-term conditions. As a result, the CQC issued warning notices to Dr De Silva.

Concerns Over Missed Kidney Disease Diagnoses

The CQC identified 70 patients who may have had a missed diagnosis of chronic kidney disease (CKD) at stage 3, 4 or 5.

It was found that there was a failure to follow national guidance in relation to monitoring long-term conditions. It was found that the surgery’s recall systems were “not fully effective,” and it was noted that there were “delays in reviewing test results and clinical documentation – placing people at risk of harm.”

Why Missed CKD Diagnoses Are Serious

Chronic kidney disease is a long-term condition, where the kidneys don’t function properly. CKD can worsen over time, and in some people, the kidneys may stop working altogether. Treatment can help relieve the symptoms of CKD and prevent the condition from getting worse.

A missed diagnosis of chronic kidney disease can be serious and may lead to:

• Kidney failure
• The need for dialysis or a kidney transplant
• Serious long-term complications, such as cardiovascular disease

Regulatory Action Taken

To drive improvements, the CQC has taken action against Cricklade Surgery, including issuing warning notices in December 2025.

The warning notices were served to Dr De Silva for “failing to meet regulations related to safe care and treatment, good governance and staffing at Cricklade Surgery.”

The service has also been placed into special measures, meaning the practice must make significant improvements within a clear timeframe, to prevent further action.

Response from the Surgery

Following the CQC inspection, Dr de Silva commented that the surgery’s priority is “to ensure that people who use our services receive safe, compassionate and high-quality care.”

He added that they are committed to “embedding lasting improvement across the service.”

“We have developed a comprehensive improvement plan aligned with the key lines of enquiry identified by the CQC. Each action has a designated lead, clear milestones and monitoring arrangements. Progress has been reviewed weekly by the senior leadership team and reported to the board.”

You can read the full response via the surgery’s homepage.

How Many Patients Could Be Affected?

The CQC identified up to 70 patients who may have experienced a missed diagnosis due to the surgery’s failings. However, it is possible that more patients may have been affected.

Could You Have Been Affected?

If you believe you have been affected, you may be eligible to make a medical negligence claim. To qualify, you should:

• Be registered at Cricklade Surgery
• Have experienced a delayed diagnosis of chronic kidney disease
• Have suffered a worsening of your condition or symptoms due to the delayed diagnosis
• Have not received appropriate monitoring for your health condition

Speak to Our Team

At Fletchers, we represent clients who have suffered a delay in the diagnosis and treatment of kidney disease. Our dedicated Group Action team works tirelessly to secure justice and compensation, helping clients access the care and support they need to manage their condition.

Contact our Group Action team for a free initial consultation. There’s no obligation to proceed with a claim, and our experienced team will be on hand to offer confidential support to help you understand your options and decide your next steps. Get in touch today.