Ken Kirk's comments about what private companies have done to the NHS erroneously analyses the causes of the problems and distorts the perspective on what such companies offer and have already delivered (Letters, March 26).

Each of the problem areas cited involves Government requirements on the use of private finance initiatives or undue political involvement.

They do not demonstrate inherent shortcomings in the private sector which a wider perspective would recognise has delivered all the computer systems deployed successfully in the NHS as well as all its hospital buildings, not to mention all the drugs and medical equipment over many years.

The private sector is not free of blemish but nor is the NHS which is why it is independently ranked as only just inside the "top 20" best healthcare systems in the world despite huge funding increases.

Private companies have more to offer the NHS but cannot be held responsible for the consequences of specific Government actions or inadequate NHS management which fails to unlock its potential as successfully as in other countries.

That the private healthcare sector continues to attract millions, who pay for treatment and cover themselves despite the free NHS alternative, speaks volumes about those missed opportunities.

  • Peter Reeves, St Keyna Avenue, Hove