The American Heart Association and Laerdal Medical have announced the nationwide launch of Self-Guided Learning, a flexible resuscitation training model designed for healthcare professionals, workplace safety personnel, and emergency responders who require credentialed training but face scheduling constraints. This new delivery method allows learners to complete HeartCode Complete Basic Life Support, Advanced Cardiac Life Support, and Pediatric Advanced Life Support courses independently, combining online coursework with hands-on skills verification at CPR Verification Station learning centers.
The American Heart Association, which develops the official resuscitation guidelines used by training providers across the United States and in over 90 additional countries, collaborated with Laerdal Medical to create this training option. John Meiners, chief of Mission Aligned Businesses for the American Heart Association, stated that expanding training options across the spectrum from instructor-led to self-guided learning removes barriers to access while maintaining scientific standards. The initiative supports the organization's goal of doubling cardiac arrest survival by 2030.
Self-Guided Learning consists of self-paced online activities compatible with any device and hands-on skills sessions at CPR Verification Stations, which use advanced simulation technology to provide real-time audiovisual feedback and coaching without instructor oversight. Upon successful completion, learners receive an American Heart Association Course Completion eCard. The training is currently available in 47 states, with expansion to all 50 states planned soon.
Learners can locate nearby CPR Verification Station learning centers using CPR Finder, entering their ZIP code to view available centers and accessing instructions through Premier Distributor websites. Alf-Christian Dybdahl, chief executive officer of Laerdal Medical, described the model as an easily accessible and effective option for those who prefer independent learning. The partnership between the organizations, facilitated through RQI Partners, represents a continued effort to transform how CPR is taught and learned.
This training model is particularly suitable for healthcare professionals and students seeking flexible options, allied health providers, remote and rural healthcare staff, emergency medical services professionals, and both initial and renewal learners requiring certification. The launch expands the American Heart Association's existing training footprint, which includes instructor-led, blended learning, and digital CPR training solutions. For information on other training options, visit the Association's CPR training page.
