Jess’s Rule: Three strikes and we rethink

Under Jess’s Rule, GP teams are encouraged to critically re-evaluate a diagnosis if a patient presents three times with the same concerns and their condition remains unexpectedly unresolved, symptoms are escalating, or there is still no substantiated diagnosis.

While the principle of “three strikes and rethink” is already common practice in many clinical settings, Jess’s Rule reinforces this approach to help reduce diagnostic delays. It reminds clinicians to use their judgment and take a fresh look when cases remain unclear.

Jess’s Rule is named in memory of Jessica Brady, who tragically passed away from 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, yet her cancer was not diagnosed.

For more information and resources, visit here.