The challenges facing the NHS in implementing Martha's Rule

NHS England (2024a) has recently provided details on how Martha's Rule will be implemented in the NHS. The first phase will start in April 2024. There will be a phased introduction, beginning with at least, the report states,100 adult and paediatric acute provider sites. These will already offer a 24/7 critical outreach capability. NHS England will shortly be asking for expressions of interests from Trusts. A document will be created that will outline the additional support available from NHS England, including funding for project resources and access to specialist support and expertise. The initial roll-out experience will inform future plans and policy across the NHS for Martha's Rule in 2025-2026 and across other clinical settings such as community and mental health hospitals. The roll out is to be welcomed and Martha's Rule will provide a useful tool to enhance patient safety in the NHS and will contribute to the development of an NHS patient safety culture.