Background
In June 2024, “Martha’s Rule” was introduced into 143 NHS Trusts. This rule allows patients, families and staff to quickly request an urgent review from an independent medical team if they’re worried a patient is worsening and feel their concerns aren’t being heard. It also requires hospitals to regularly check in with patients and families about how the patient is doing.
Methods
A research study is being carried out to understand how this first rollout of Martha’s Rule is working for patients, families and healthcare staff. The study will include case studies at three hospitals, involving observations and interviews with staff and families, as well as a review of existing research and a public survey on awareness of the rule.
Impact
With input from key groups, the study will lead to recommendations for improving future rollout, informing future research and guiding other hospitals that want to adopt Martha’s Rule.
The interim report for this project is now available; it highlights key findings and implications for policy makers, further rollout and onward research. These findings have already been used to inform national guidance, including the development of the Martha’s Rule core standards. The final report of this evaluation is expected to be published in the Summer.
For any questions or comments, please email marthasrule.study@bthft.nhs.uk