This article outlines the prevalence of asthma in the UK and the importance of consistent and frequent monitoring of inhaler technique in providing improved care to patients with asthma. A protocol for assessing inhaler technique is proposed to improve equity of care and achieve optimum symptom control. The focus is on primary care as this is where the majority of asthma management takes place, and therefore where the potential lies for improved control and prevention of exacerbations, unnecessary hospital admissions and ultimately improved quality of life for these patients.