The head of the NHS has announced plans to roll out a new system across England that will give seriously ill patients and their families access to a second opinion if their condition worsens.
As part of Martha’s Rule, which will be rolled out from April, patients, families, carers, and staff will have round-the-clock access to a rapid review from a separate care team if they are worried about a person’s condition.
In addition, health staff at participating hospitals will formally record daily insights and information about a patient’s health directly from their parents or families, making sure any changes in behaviour or condition are noted by the people who know the patient best.
