Concerns about hospital care have sparked more than 500 calls requesting a rapid review under Martha’s Rule in just two months.
The NHS scheme was introduced earlier this year in memory of 13-year-old Martha Mills, who died in 2021 after her family’s concerns about her deteriorating condition were not listened to.
The teenager developed sepsis after an injury to her pancreas and a coroner ruled that she would likely have survived if she had been escalated to intensive care sooner.
Some 573 calls were made under Martha’s Rule in September and October to a critical care outreach team by patients, families or medics.
Of those, 286 required a clinical review and 57 led to changes in care such as patients receiving antibiotics, oxygen or other treatment. In 14 cases, calls led to patients being urgently transferred to intensive care.
The scheme has been introduced at 143 hospitals. Martha’s parents now hope it will be rolled out nationally.
Merope Mills and Paul Laity said: “We’re really pleased to see the immediate positive impact Martha’s Rule has made in the hospitals that have introduced it so far.
“It is our view that listening to the voices of patients and their families makes for the best and safest medicine.
“The early data suggests that Martha’s Rule isn’t being triggered inappropriately or overused. Were it to be implemented nationally, it would greatly improve care, help change the culture and save lives.”
Of the 573 calls made, 86 (15%) were from patients, 436 (76%) were from family members, carers or designated advocates, and 51 (9%) were from NHS staff.
The escalation process is available 24/7 and advertised in participating hospitals on posters and leaflets.
NHS national medical director Professor Sir Stephen Powis said: “The introduction of Martha’s Rule represents one of the most important changes to patient care in recent years, and we are really encouraged to see the impact it is already having for patients in this first phase.
“This early data highlights just how essential the Martha’s Rule escalation process will be for patients, families and staff, to help ensure those experiencing acute deterioration can be identified and treated at the earliest possible opportunity.
“With one in five clinical reviews triggered by Martha’s Rule so far leading to potentially life-saving changes in care, this early insight suggests the initiative is starting to have a transformative effect in improving patient safety further.
“We are so grateful to Martha’s parents, Merope and Paul, for their campaigning and continued collaboration to help the NHS save more lives.”
Health Secretary Wes Streeting also paid tribute to the “tireless campaign” by Martha’s parents.
He added: “It is just a shame that it took such a heartbreaking tragedy, and the bravery of Martha’s parents to speak out, for this change to be made.
“The roll-out of Martha’s Rule is already playing a role in building a safer NHS by putting patients and their families at the heart of discussions about their healthcare, and early indications are that it could have a transformative impact. This government is committed to making sure every patient is heard.”
