A leading head and neck cancer charity has welcomed a new patient safety initiative being rolled out across the NHS in England.
The Get A-Head Charitable Trust, which funds research, education and equipment to fight head and neck diseases, particularly cancer, has praised the introduction of Jess’ Rule as a significant step forward in improving early diagnosis rates.
The new rule, named after Jessica Brady who died from cancer at 27 after multiple GP appointments failed to diagnose her condition, requires GPs to reconsider their diagnosis if patients return for a third time with the same symptoms.
Danni Heath, director of Get A-Head, said: “The introduction of Jess’ Rule is a significant and welcome step forward in improving patient safety and early diagnosis across the NHS. At Get A-Head, we regularly see how critical early detection is for head and neck cancer patients, where timely diagnosis can dramatically improve survival rates.
“This new safety measure will help ensure that persistent symptoms aren’t overlooked, particularly in younger patients who may not fit typical profiles for certain cancers. We’ve seen through patients like Wendy White how important it is for individuals to be their own health advocates.”
Wendy White, 58, from Worcestershire, was diagnosed with mucosal melanoma in January 2023 after initially being told she had sinusitis. Despite visiting her GP several times with persistent symptoms including nosebleeds and nasal congestion, it wasn’t until she used her private medical insurance that she discovered she had an aggressive form of cancer.
Wendy was refered to and treated by leading consultant Shahz Ahmed, who specialises in sinus and skull surgery and is also a trustee of Get A-Head.
Today, alongside the charity, she also welcomed the roll-out of the new rule.
“When I was experiencing persistent symptoms, I knew something wasn’t right despite initially being diagnosed with sinusitis. I had to keep pushing to get the correct diagnosis. Jess’ Rule is exactly what patients like me need – it will ensure that GPs take a fresh look at cases where symptoms persist. No one should have to fight so hard to be heard when their health is at stake.”
The ‘three strikes and rethink’ approach formalised by Jess’ Rule will provide a vital safety net for patients who present with persistent symptoms that don’t respond to initial treatments.
Danni added: “Wendy’s experience highlights exactly why Jess’ Rule is so necessary. Had such a protocol been in place, her rare mucosal melanoma might have been identified sooner.
“We commend Jessica Brady’s family for their tireless campaigning and the NHS for implementing this life-saving measure. Jess’ Rule will undoubtedly save lives.”
She also emphasised that the charity greatly values the work of GPs and other frontline healthcare staff.
“We recognise that GPs and frontline staff like nurses are doing an extraordinary job under incredibly challenging circumstances. They are the backbone of our healthcare system, dealing with immense workloads and limited resources while providing compassionate care.
“This new rule isn’t about criticism but rather about providing additional support to these dedicated professionals as they make difficult diagnostic decisions every day. By working together – patients, GPs, specialists and charities – we can achieve the best possible outcomes for everyone.”
Get A-Head exists to raise awareness of head and neck cancer symptoms while funding vital research, education and equipment that improves outcomes for patients.
