In December 2020, Jessica Brady, aged just 27, tragically passed away from cancer after months of missed opportunities for diagnosis.
Over a period of five months, Jess had 20 consultations with her GP practice. Despite her persistent and worsening symptoms, her concerns were repeatedly dismissed – she was even told she was “too young” to have cancer. By the time she was finally admitted to hospital, Jess had stage 4 adenocarcinoma, and she passed away shortly after.
Following her death, Jess’s family began campaigning for a change in how GPs approach repeated patient consultations, leading to the introduction of what is now known as Jess’s Rule.
Jess’s Rule is a new primary care initiative designed to prevent GP misdiagnosis and delayed diagnosis by encouraging doctors to “reflect, review, and rethink” when a patient presents repeatedly with the same symptoms.
The rule emphasises that if a patient visits their GP three or more times with the same concern, and symptoms persist or worsen, clinicians must reassess their approach and consider further investigation or referral.
The Three Key Steps of Jess’s Rule
According to the Department of Health, many GP practices already follow good diagnostic practices, but Jess’s Rule aims to make this approach standard across the NHS.
Jess’s Rule represents a major step forward in patient safety and accountability in primary care. By formalising this three-step process, it seeks to prevent tragedies caused by avoidable medical errors.
Crucially, this rule ensures that patients are not dismissed after repeated visits, especially when symptoms persist or worsen. It also highlights the importance of clear documentation, timely referrals, and continuity of care.
For patients who have suffered due to GP negligence, misdiagnosis, or delayed diagnosis, Jess’s Rule could strengthen the legal grounds for a medical negligence claim.
If a GP fails to follow these steps, for example, by not reviewing repeated consultations, ignoring red flag symptoms, or refusing to refer for further testing, this could be considered a breach of duty of care.
Such failures can result in avoidable harm, and under UK law, patients have the right to seek compensation for the suffering and losses caused by negligent medical treatment.
At NJS Law, we fully support initiatives like Jess’s Rule because patient care should always come first. However, when medical professionals fall short and negligence occurs, our team is here to help you seek justice.
We are one of the UK’s leading medical negligence law firms, with a proven track record of securing compensation for clients who have experienced:
• GP misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis
• Failure to refer for tests or specialist care
• Incorrect or missed cancer diagnoses
• Negligent treatment leading to further harm or loss
Our solicitors offer free, no-obligation consultations and work on a No Win, No Fee basis, meaning you won’t pay any fees unless your claim is successful.
If you or a loved one have suffered because your GP failed to diagnose your condition or ignored your symptoms, it’s important to seek legal advice as soon as possible.
Contact NJS Law today to discuss your potential medical negligence claim.
Our specialist team will listen to your experience with compassion and guide you through your options clearly and confidently.
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