NHS launch new warning system in bid to stop 'avoidable child deaths'

05 November 2023 , 11:02

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Parents will have more say in response to Martha's rule (Image: Getty Images/Tetra images RF)

The NHS has launched a new warning system to ensure health professionals act on parents' concerns in a bid to stop "avoidable deaths" in children.

The National Paediatric Early Warning System aims to follow the key signs of babies, children and teenagers. Experts hope the new procedure will prompt doctors and nurses to listen when a parent stresses that their child's health has declined.

Under the new system, if a parent or guardian raises concerns that their child has become more ill than the score shows, care will be escalated straight away regardless of what observations have already taken place.

Professor Sir Stephen Powis, NHS national medical director, commented: “We know that nobody can spot the signs of a child getting sicker better than their parents, which is why we have ensured that the concerns of families and carers are right at the heart of this new system with immediate escalation in a child’s care if they raise concerns and plans to incorporate the right to a second opinion as the system develops further.”

The move comes after the Government announced it would implement Martha's Rule in hospitals across England, reports Independent. Under the commitment, patients will be given the right to a second opinion if they believe their worries are being dismissed by staff.

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Martha Mills, 13, tragically died in 2021 after developing sepsis. The following year, a coroner ruled the teenager would've been likely to survive if medics had realised the warning signs and transferred her to intensive care sooner. Her mother, Merope, called for more power to be given to patients and their families in response. The NHS confirmed it will include guidance from Martha's Rule to the new system as it develops.

Health minister Maria Caulfield backed the new system and said it will "save lives." She added: “We know from the tragic case of Martha Mills that it’s vital to give parents a voice when it comes to the care of their child and so it will be reassuring to families that as part of this system, parents will be heard.”

Monica Charsley