Manx Care is asking all GP practices on the Island to formally adopt Jess’s Rule, a UK NHS initiative that encourages clinicians to reflect, review and rethink a diagnosis when a patient presents with the same symptoms or concerns on three occasions.
Jess’s Rule is particularly relevant where symptoms unexpectedly persist, escalate, or remain unexplained. While GPs already routinely reflect on and review diagnoses as part of good clinical practice, by making a formal request to all practices, Manx Care is building on the commitment made by the Department of Health and Social Care to deliver safer, more consistent care across the Island.
Members of the public will begin to see information about Jess’s Rule displayed in GP practices through posters and leaflets, as well as in other public locations around the Island. Information will also be shared via Manx Care’s social media channels and website, and GP practices will be asked to provide relevant information on their own websites.
For Jess’s Rule to work as intended, Manx Care encourages patients to return to their GP, or to the health and social care professionals they have already seen, if they continue to experience the same symptoms or concerns: particularly if those symptoms persist, worsen, or cannot be explained.
To help achieve the best possible outcomes, patients are encouraged to be clear about their symptoms and experiences, and to be open and honest when discussing their concerns. Providing as much relevant information as possible, being involved in conversations about next steps, and following the advice and recommendations given by health and care professionals all support effective decision‑making.
The importance of reaching the right diagnosis, and seeking a second opinion when needed, also applies within hospital settings. At Noble’s Hospital, policies and procedures are already in place to ensure patients, parents and carers are listened to, and that a second opinion can be sought where appropriate. Further information about these processes will be shared in the coming weeks.
Dr Chris Stockport, Executive Medical Director at Manx Care, said:
'GPs and other primary care professionals already take time to revisit and question diagnoses as part of good day‑to‑day care. Jess’s Rule simply gives a simple-to-use reminder of that approach and highlights how important it is to listen carefully to patients when symptoms persist or don’t follow the expected course.'
Health and Social Care Minister, Claire Christian MHK has commented:
'The voice of the patient, family and caregivers, is vitally important to receiving the best possible health and social care. I am proud to be announcing the upcoming public information drive to ensure patients know they can be heard when they need additional support and input. Thank you to Manx Care, and all frontline staff, for taking these new steps to ensure that we continue to provide safe, quality and patient-centred care on the Island.'
Anyone who has concerns about their care, or the care of a loved one, is encouraged to speak directly with healthcare staff. If this is not possible, support is available through the Manx Care Advice and Liaison Service (MCALS).
MCALS is a confidential service operated by Manx Care, dedicated to listening to feedback and supporting positive change across the health and social care system. While MCALS cannot provide medical advice or a diagnosis, the team can help with health and social care‑related questions, concerns or problems.
MCALS is open Monday to Friday, 10am to 3pm (excluding bank holidays). The team can be contacted on +44 1624 642642. The service is closed at weekends.
Manx Care and the Department of Health and Social Care remain committed to delivering health and social care services that meet the needs of the Island’s population. Strengthening the voice of patients and service users is an important step in supporting safe, high‑quality care for all.
