Martha’s rule presents a unique opportunity for improving patient care (BMJ, 9 October 2023)

Summary

Much has been written recently about Martha’s rule—the proposal to allow patients in hospitals in England and their families the right to demand an urgent second opinion if their condition is deteriorating. In this BMJ opinion piece, Helen Haskell outlines some principles for creating an effective family activated system, including breadth, urgency, continuity, independence and feedback.