Martha's rule expanded across England after hundreds of lives saved
Summary
Martha's rule, allowing families to request urgent second opinions in hospitals, is being expanded across England. This initiative, named after Martha Mills who died from sepsis due to care failings, has been tested since April 2024 and has led to numerous interventions that may have saved lives.Key Facts
- Martha's rule is a system for families to get an urgent second opinion on medical care.
- The rule is being implemented in all English hospitals that provide acute or short-term care.
- Martha Mills died at 13 after developing sepsis; her parents campaigned for this rule.
- Since April 2024, 143 hospital sites piloted the rule, resulting in nearly 5,000 calls.
- These calls led to 241 potential life-saving interventions.
- 71.9% of calls to Martha's rule helplines came from families seeking help.
- Adjustments in care occurred 720 times, including changes in medication or treatment.
- Calls also helped resolve delays in treatment or communication issues in hospitals.
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