The Call for Concern service, also known as Martha’s Rule, is a new 24/7 service that inpatients, their loved ones and carers can call if they are concerned that the patient is becoming more unwell.
When should you use Call for Concern?
You should use Call for Concern when you feel that you, your loved one or the person you care for, is becoming more unwell and their healthcare team has not recognised your concern.
What will happen when you call?
When you call the Call for Concern service, please provide the patient’s name, what ward they are on and details of what is happening.
If you are unable to phone the service, please speak to the nurse in charge of the ward who will make the call for you.
Your call will be picked up by the Critical Care Outreach Team who operate the Call for Concern service. The team will respond, assess the situation, and work with the nursing team and other healthcare professionals as needed.
Using the Call for Concern service will not have a negative effect on your care in any way. We know that patients, their loved ones and carers may recognise that something is wrong before the healthcare team does. Call for Concern ensures that important concerns from patients, their loved ones and carers are listened to and acted on.
If your call goes to voicemail, please leave a message with the above information and the team will pick this up.
When not to use Call for Concern
Call for Concern is a patient safety service for patients admitted to our hospitals.
If you have general enquiries or other concerns, please speak to your nurse, ward manager or our Patient Advice and Liaison Team.
How to contact the service
To contact the service, please call switchboard
- 0121 424 2000 and ask for the Call for Concern service.
Last reviewed: 28 February 2025