Martha's rule rolled out to all acute hospitals in England after hundreds of lives saved

The article discusses the nationwide rollout of "Martha's rule" in England's acute hospitals. This policy, named after a patient who died due to a missed diagnosis, makes it easier for doctors to request an urgent second opinion from a specialist when they are unsure about a diagnosis. The rule has already saved hundreds of lives since its initial introduction in some hospitals. It allows doctors to bypass bureaucratic hurdles and quickly consult with specialists, leading to faster diagnoses and treatment for critically ill patients. The government has now mandated the implementation of Martha's rule across all acute hospitals in England, aiming to improve patient safety and outcomes. This move comes after the rule's success in selected hospitals, where it has demonstrated its potential to prevent missed or delayed diagnoses, which can have serious consequences. The article highlights the importance of this policy in enhancing the healthcare system's responsiveness and emphasizes the positive impact it has had on patient care.