Martha's Rule implemented in all England A&E departments

A new child‑healthcare regulation, officially titled the Martha Mills Act, was enacted this week after state legislators cited the 13‑year‑old’s tragic death as a catalyst for change. The law requires medical providers to document and respond to family concerns about a minor’s treatment within a specified timeframe, and mandates that any dissenting opinions be reviewed by an independent oversight committee before care decisions are finalized.

The rule is named after Martha Mills, whose family reported that their warnings about her condition were ignored prior to her death. Lawmakers said the legislation aims to prevent similar oversights by ensuring that parental input is formally considered and acted upon, thereby strengthening safeguards for pediatric patients across the state.