clinical negligence
Jess’s Rule is a new initiative named after Jessica Brady, who contacted her GP more than 20 times in 2020 while ill.
When Jess began to feel ill, she was told her symptoms were due to long Covid and that she was “too young for cancer.” Despite many visits to her doctor, she sadly passed away from advanced stage four cancer later that year.
Whilst it is not an introduction of legislation, it is a robust reminder to GPs across the UK to adopt a “three strikes and rethink” approach.
The “three strikes and rethink” approach means that when a patient attends three appointments with the same symptoms and shows no improvement, action should be taken, such as the ordering of additional tests, seeking a second opinion, or a referral to a specialist for further investigation.
Sadly, many clinical negligence claims involve a delay in diagnosing serious conditions, and the hope is that Jess’s rule will mean fewer cases of missed diagnoses and the prevention of avoidable deaths.
Jess’s rule could also influence future litigation as it sets a clear standard of care, and a failure to follow this guidance could strengthen a claimant’s case.
Discover how Box Legal’s clinical negligence ATE policy safeguards claimants by covering all necessary legal costs and disbursements. Contact us today for expert assistance.
If you would like to speak to us or obtain further information, then please call 0870 766 9997, or email info@boxlegal.co.uk.
