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Extension of Martha’s Rule to A&Es to allow easier second opinions

4 articles from 3 sources
First reported on Monday 21 September 2026 at 19:01 EDT by The Independent·Latest article on Tuesday 22 September 2026 at 08:30 EDT

Summary

Martha’s Rule, initially introduced in memory of 13-year-old Martha Mills, has been extended to all accident and emergency (A&E) departments in England. The rule allows patients to request a second medical opinion more easily, aiming to improve patient safety. The NHS has confirmed that the new rule will be implemented in all A&E departments and waiting rooms by March 2028. The measure follows the death of Martha Mills in 2021, which led to the original introduction of the rule. The expansion is intended to further protect vulnerable patients in emergency care settings.

Latest: The NHS confirmed that the expanded Martha’s Rule will be implemented in all A&E departments and waiting rooms in England by March 2028.

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How it unfolded

  1. Tuesday 22 September

    The NHS confirmed that the expanded Martha’s Rule will be implemented in all A&E departments and waiting rooms in England by March 2028.

  2. Monday 21 September