The American Heart Association and Laerdal Medical have launched Self-Guided Learning nationwide, a flexible resuscitation training delivery model designed for healthcare, workplace safety, and emergency response professionals who must complete credentialed training while managing demanding schedules. This science-based approach allows learners to complete HeartCode Complete required coursework and skills verification independently, expanding training access while maintaining the Association's rigorous standards.
Self-Guided Learning enables completion of Basic Life Support, Advanced Cardiac Support, and Pediatric Advanced Life Support courses at times and locations convenient to learners. The program combines self-paced online activities with hands-on skills sessions at CPR Verification Station learning centers, where advanced simulation technology provides real-time audiovisual feedback and coaching without instructor oversight. This model expands the Association's existing training footprint, which includes instructor-led, blended learning, and digital CPR training solutions.
"By expanding training options across the full spectrum, from instructor-led to self-guided learning, we are removing barriers to access while maintaining the science, skills validation and standards the American Heart Association is known for," said John Meiners, chief of Mission Aligned Businesses for the American Heart Association. The initiative supports the Association's goal of doubling cardiac arrest survival by 2030 by preparing more people to respond effectively in emergencies.
Available in 47 states with expansion to all 50 states planned, Self-Guided Learning centers can be located using CPRFinder.com. Students enter their ZIP code to find nearby learning centers and are directed to Premier Distributor websites for course completion instructions. The Association develops the official resuscitation guidelines used by all CPR and First Aid training providers in the United States and many organizations in over 90 countries, while Laerdal has collaborated with the Association on resuscitation education for more than 20 years.
"Self-Guided Learning provides people who need BLS, ACLS and PALS training and prefer independent learning an easily accessible, effective and ideal training option to fit their schedule," said Alf-Christian Dybdahl, chief executive officer of Laerdal Medical. The model represents a significant milestone in both organizations' mission to transform how CPR is taught and learned.
The training is particularly suitable for healthcare professionals and students seeking flexible options, allied healthcare providers, remote and rural healthcare staff, emergency medical services professionals, and initial or renewal learners requiring American Heart Association Course Completion eCards. For additional information about instructor-led and blended training options, visit cpr.heart.org, while information about digital CPR training programs is available at rqipartners.com.
