Although I am usually a fan of Alan Maynard (HSJ Intelligence supplement, page 8, 15 March).his assertion that 'primary care is still largely a data-free domain' is clearly tosh. NHS primary care probably has the best primary care information in the world.

Although I am usually a fan of Alan Maynard (HSJ Intelligence supplement, page 8, 15 March).his assertion that 'primary care is still largely a data-free domain' is clearly tosh. NHS primary care probably has the best primary care information in the world.

And since the introduction of the quality and outcomes framework it is possible to link many common conditions to evidence-based action and GP pay. This is in stark contrast with secondary care, where the vast majority of payment systems are still based on volumes not outcomes.

Chris Fewtrell, senior associate, Health Services Management Centre, Birmingham University