We are committed to ensuring every patient feels heard and supported throughout their care. We are pleased to share that a new patient safety initiative, Jess’s Rule, is now being adopted in GP surgeries across the country to help improve early diagnosis and prevent avoidable harm.

Jess’s Rule encourages clinicians to take a fresh look at cases when a patient presents with the same symptoms three times without a clear diagnosis, or when symptoms are worsening despite treatment. The principle behind this approach is often described as “three strikes and we rethink.”

This means clinicians are encouraged to review, reflect and, where appropriate, take further action such as:

• Offering a face‑to‑face appointment
• Ordering additional tests
• Seeking a second opinion
• Making a referral for specialist care

🛡 Why Jess’s Rule Matters

This initiative formalises a process that many GP surgeries already follow. It has been jointly developed by the Department of Health and Social Care, NHS England, and the Royal College of General Practitioners, and is now being supported with national guidance and patient‑facing posters to help raise awareness.

💛 The Story Behind Jess’s Rule

Jess’s Rule was created in memory of Jessica Brady, a young woman from Stevenage who tragically died after her symptoms remained unexplained despite multiple GP visits. Her family have worked tirelessly to ensure others in similar situations receive timely, thorough reviews of their symptoms.

🗣 Your Voice Matters

We always want you to feel confident in your care. If you ever feel that your symptoms have not been fully addressed after several appointments, please speak to your clinician or request a follow‑up so we can make sure your care plan continues to meet your needs.