Jess's Rule: tips for patients

Advice and Information - 25 February 2026

We've heard from a number of residents looking for support so they can confidently exercise their rights under Jess's Rule.

Here is what you need to know. If you have been to your GP three times or more with the same or escalating symptoms or concerns, and/or you have an existing treatment plan that is not working, your GP must do the following:

Reflect: Your GP must think back on what you have said and consider what has changed or what they have missed. They must offer you ongoing continuous care. If previous consultations have been remote, they must see the patient face-to-face and carry out a physical examination.

Review: Where they are uncertain about symptoms or unsure of a diagnosis, your GP must consider getting the opinion of another GP or health professional. They must review any 'red flags' that could suggest another diagnosis, regardless of your age or demographic.

Rethink: If appropriate, your GP must refer you onwards for further tests or for specialist input.

If you have unexplained symptoms and/or you're not satisfied with how a specific health concern is being dealt with, remind your GP about Jess's Rule. They have a responsibility to think again about their approach. 

The Jess’s Rule website offers more information and resources aimed at both patients and professionals.

Jess’s Rule is in memory of Jessica Brady, a young woman from Hertfordshire, who passed away due to cancer in December 2020 at the age of 27. In the five months leading up to her death, Jess had over 20 consultations with her GP practice, and her cancer had not been diagnosed.

You might also be interested in

Patient Participation Toolkit

We created a Patient Participation Group (PPG) Toolkit, in collaboration with Healthwatch Central Bedfordshire. The toolkit acts as a detailed resource for setting up, managing, and enhancing PPGs within GP practices across Bedfordshire, Luton, and Milton Keynes (BLMK).
Report