A transformative new patient safety protocol, known as 'Martha's Rule', is being rolled out across the NHS in England, marking a watershed moment in how hospitals handle critical care.
The initiative, announced by NHS England, grants patients and their families the legal right to demand an urgent second clinical opinion if their concerns about a loved one's deteriorating condition are not being acted upon.
A Legacy Forged in Tragedy
This landmark policy is the direct result of a tireless campaign by Merope Mills and Paul Laity, whose daughter, Martha, died in 2021 from sepsis that developed after a pancreatic injury sustained from a fall from her bike.
Martha was being treated at King's College Hospital in London. Her parents repeatedly voiced concerns that their daughter was becoming severely unwell—showing signs of sepsis—but felt their warnings were not heeded.
An internal investigation later concluded that she would most likely have survived had she been moved to intensive care earlier.
How Martha's Rule Will Work
The system is designed to create a crucial safety net. The core components include:
- A 24/7 escalation process: A dedicated phone number and signage on hospital wards will allow any patient or relative to swiftly trigger a review from a separate critical care team.
- Empowering families: It formally recognises the vital role of families as part of the care team and ensures their insights are taken seriously.
- Enhanced documentation: Staff will be required to better record and act on conversations with patients and their relatives.
NHS National Medical Director Professor Sir Stephen Powis stated the move will "provide a major boost to patient safety" and ensure that the voices of patients and families are "heard and acted upon".
A National Rollout
The initial phase will see the rule implemented in at least 100 hospitals across England from April 2024, with a expected full nationwide rollout to follow. The government has thrown its support behind the initiative, which has also garnered widespread backing from medical leaders and patient safety groups.
For Martha's parents, the reform is a bittersweet victory. Their advocacy has created a lasting legacy that aims to prevent other families from enduring similar, preventable loss.
