Martha's rule, introduced in 2024, has reportedly saved over 400 lives by allowing patients and their families to ask for a review of their care within the NHS. Official figures indicate that in the first 16 months following its implementation, helplines received over 10,000 calls from concerned patients, relatives, or staff. These calls resulted in many patients being moved to intensive care, receiving necessary medications, or experiencing various other improvements in their treatment and care plans.

The rule is named after Martha Mills, a 13-year-old girl whose tragic death in 2021 due to sepsis highlighted significant deficiencies in timely medical care. Investigations revealed that prompt action, such as transferring Martha to the intensive care unit sooner, could have significantly increased her chances of survival. Her case prompted advocacy for better protocols within the NHS to ensure that patients' deteriorating conditions are addressed more rapidly and effectively.

Following the rule's introduction, the data shows that a significant percentage of the calls—over one in three—led to beneficial changes in patient care, illustrating the important role such advocacy measures can play in the healthcare system. As the NHS continues to evolve, Martha's rule serves as a poignant reminder of the need for patient empowerment and responsive care in medical practices, potentially influencing future health policy decisions across England.