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Jess's Rule
14 October 2025
Type
Written Ministerial Statement
Department
Department of Health and Social Care
At a Glance
Issue Summary
The statement addresses the introduction of Jess’s Rule, a new policy aimed at improving early diagnosis and patient safety by requiring primary care staff to review and rethink cases after three visits with unresolved symptoms.
Action Requested
This initiative involves GPs and clinical staff reviewing patient records and questioning initial assumptions when patients present with persistent or worsening symptoms for the third time. The rule is supported by NHS England, the Department of Health and Social Care, and the Royal College of General Practitioners to enhance early diagnosis and patient safety.
Key Facts
- Jess’s Rule was announced on Tuesday 23rd September.
- It follows the tragic death of Jess Brady in December 2020 due to undiagnosed cancer.
- Jess had between 15 to 20 GP appointments before being diagnosed.
- The rule is supported by NHS England and the Department of Health and Social Care.
- Dr Claire Fuller and Dr Kiren Collison have been instrumental in developing Jess’s Rule.
- The Royal College of General Practitioners supports an online resource for earlier cancer detection.
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