Published: 10/07/2003, Volume II3, No. 5862 Page 22

The conclusion of Edward Peck's study, that the private sector is 'increasingly resigned' to only developing services that 'anticipate emerging demands for high-cost, low-volume services' (news, page 9, 26 June), will come as no surprise to many.

While there have been some outstanding examples of success involving private companies in the delivery of frontline services, there remains an apparent reluctance on the part of many NHS commissioners to engage with the independent healthcare sector.

The 'perception' of purchasers that they are paying for overpriced services needs to be challenged by objective studies that explore all the options for the delivery of best value.

Until this issue is seriously addressed by the Department of Health, the enormous potential of the independent sector to contribute to the delivery of cost effective, high quality mainstream NHS care will remain untapped.

Andrew Newens Director for eating disorders Affinity Healthcare