An inquest has commenced at Norfolk Coroner's Court into the death of Michael Pearcey, an 85-year-old resident of Postwick, who passed away due to multi-organ failure at Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital (N&N). Mr. Pearcey underwent lung surgery at the hospital on February 6 and died there on February 22, 2023.
The inquest has highlighted the views of Mr. Pearcey’s family regarding the potential impact of "Martha’s Rule." This protocol, named after 13-year-old Martha Mills who succumbed to sepsis, allows families to request an urgent and independent second opinion in medical emergencies. Michael's son, Marcus Pearcey, a businessman from Norwich, believes that the implementation of Martha’s Rule during his father's treatment could have significantly improved his care.
A complete inquest into Michael Pearcey’s death will be held later this year.