What happened: Since its introduction in 2024, Martha’s rule has allowed NHS patients to request care reviews, potentially saving over 400 lives. More than 10,000 calls to helplines led to critical interventions like ICU transfers and necessary treatments.
Why it matters:
- Improves patient safety by enabling timely reviews of care.
- Empowers patients and families to influence treatment decisions.
MNN Take: Martha’s rule provides a formal process for patients to raise urgent concerns, helping to prevent avoidable harm within the NHS. Early data suggests it is positively impacting care outcomes.
Sources: Guardian UK