Importance of listening to patients’ families

Sir, The harrowing circumstances of the death of 13-year-old Martha Mills (news, Sep 5; letters, Sep 6, 7 & 8) should surely be a lesson to all connected with the NHS — politicians, administrators, consultants and nurses alike.

Why in this day and age do we still have an NHS which basically runs a hospital service only from Monday to Friday? Consultants striking for larger salaries need to work as normal at weekends along with the rest of NHS staff. Illness doesn’t suddenly cease on a Saturday and Sunday.

Listening to patients’ or relatives’ concerns has never been automatic; often relatives’ concerns are regarded as interfering rather than helpful. “Martha’s rule” should be implemented across the NHS without delay.
Cath Manchester
Whittle-le-Woods, Lancs

Sir,