Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) are critical tools for saving lives during sudden cardiac arrest. This condition strikes over 350,000 people annually in the U.S. outside hospitals, with a survival rate of just 10%. With an AED nearby, survival rates can rise to 40% or higher by delivering a timely shock to restore heart rhythm.
The Cardiomyopathy Health Education, Awareness, Research, and Training in Schools (HEARTS) Act, signed into law on December 26, 2024, is a bipartisan initiative to enhance cardiac safety. It provides federal grants for AEDs, CPR training, and emergency plans, focusing on schools and childcare centers to make these life-saving resources more accessible.
While the HEARTS Act funding is limited to schools and childcare centers, the broader need for AEDs extends to other settings, such as workplaces, gyms, and community centers. This guide focuses on how schools can utilize HEARTS Act funding to enhance cardiac safety and underscores the importance of AED preparedness across various spaces. We will explain the Heart Act (HEARTS Act), why it is a game-changer for public health, who is eligible for funding, and how to apply.
What is the HEARTS Act?
The HEARTS Act, officially known as the Cardiomyopathy Health Education, Awareness, Research, and Training in Schools Act, is a bipartisan law signed by President Biden on December 26, 2024. This legislation aims to improve cardiac safety, particularly in schools and childcare centers across the United States. Below, we break down its purpose, provisions, and broader impact.
Primary Goals
Grants for AEDs and Emergency Equipment
The HEARTS Act provides grants to schools and childcare centers to purchase AEDs and other essential emergency tools. This financial support helps eliminate barriers to acquiring life-saving equipment, making "AEDs for Schools" a core practical objective of this legislation.
CPR and AED Training Programs
It allocates federal funding to establish and support CPR and AED training programs for school staff and students. This provision empowers individuals within the school environment with the necessary skills to respond effectively and confidently during a cardiac emergency, directly related to the 'Training' aspect of the Act.
Cardiac Emergency Response Plans
The HEARTS Act supports schools in developing and implementing formal cardiac emergency response plans. These plans are essential for ensuring a coordinated, rapid, and practical approach when a cardiac event occurs on school grounds
Why the HEARTS Act Matters
The HEARTS Act is a vital piece of legislation that tackles the urgent issue of sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) by improving access to Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) and fostering community preparedness. Each year, over 350,000 out-of-hospital cardiac arrests occur in the United States. For children and young adults, SCA is also a tragic reality, often occurring unexpectedly during sports or other activities. SCA survival rates are low, but immediate intervention with an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) can make a dramatic difference.
Statistics on Sudden Cardiac Arrest and the Critical Role of AEDs
Sudden cardiac arrest claims over 350,000 lives annually in the United States outside hospitals, making it a leading cause of death. The survival rate for SCA is a mere 10%, but this figure can rise dramatically to 40% or higher when an AED is used within the first few minutes. This highlights the life-saving potential of AEDs, which deliver an electric shock to restore a normal heart rhythm during SCA.
- SCA in Schools: Approximately 7,000 children and adolescents experience SCA each year, often due to undiagnosed heart conditions like cardiomyopathy. Schools, where students spend much of their time, are prime locations for such emergencies.
- AED Effectiveness: Research shows that immediate defibrillation with an AED can double or triple survival chances. Yet, only about 30% of U.S. schools have AEDs on site.
- Time Sensitivity: Every minute without defibrillation reduces survival odds by 7-10%. In areas with delayed emergency response times—like rural regions—this makes AEDs indispensable.
Bridging the Gap in AED Availability with Increased Funding
The HEARTS Act directly addresses the lack of AEDs in schools, particularly in underserved areas, by providing federal grants to overcome financial barriers. AEDs typically cost between $1,000 and $2,000 each, a price tag many schools—especially in low-income or rural districts—cannot afford due to tight budgets.
- Targeted Funding: The Act prioritizes schools with limited resources or large student populations, ensuring that AEDs reach the most vulnerable areas. This levels the playing field, allowing all schools to become cardiac-safe zones.
- Training Integration: Beyond equipment, the HEARTS Act funds CPR and AED training for staff and students. This ensures the devices are present and can be used effectively in an emergency.
Community Health and Safety as a Shared Responsibility
The HEARTS Act goes beyond schools, reinforcing that health and safety are collective responsibilities. Equipping schools with AEDs and trained responders protects students and staff while benefiting visitors, families, and nearby residents. A school with these resources can serve as a safety hub, ready to respond to emergencies on campus or in surrounding areas like playgrounds or sports fields.
- Ripple Effect: The training funded by the Act creates a network of individuals prepared to act in emergencies beyond school grounds, enhancing safety across the community.
- Encouraging Broader Adoption: The success of the HEARTS Act in schools could inspire other public spaces—like churches, gyms, or businesses—to invest in AEDs and training, amplifying its reach.
How American Hospital Supply Can Help
American Hospital Supply is your partner in enhancing cardiac safety with a curated selection of Automated External Defibrillators. As a full-service e-commerce provider of medical supplies, we collaborate with top manufacturers to deliver reliable AEDs at affordable prices with fast shipping and helpful customer service. Whether you're outfitting a school, church, gym, home, or business, we've got you covered.
Defibtech Lifeline Auto AED:
This fully automatic AED delivers a shock without user input. It features a yellow-and-black design and a handle for quick transport. Its simplicity and durability make it a top choice as an AED for schools—perfect for HEARTS Act funding—or for churches where varied users need an intuitive device.
HeartSine Samaritan PAD 450P AED:
At just 2.4 pounds, this AED offers real-time CPR feedback with prompts like "Push Faster." Its compact size and optional pediatric pads make it an excellent AED for home use, ensuring readiness for all ages in sudden cardiac arrest (SCA).
Philips Heartstart AEDs:
With over 20 models, we offer specialized packages:
- OnSite AED Corporate Package: This AED is ideal for business settings like offices. It is designed for non-healthcare workers and provides step-by-step CPR guidance.
- OnSite AED Gym Package: Includes a durable carry case and wall cabinet, perfect as an AED for gyms needing swift access.
- FRx AED Church Package: Offers clear instructions for untrained users, making it a reliable AED for churches.
- FRx AED School Package: Comes with a cabinet and sign, aligning with HEARTS Act goals as an AED for schools.
Physio-Control LIFEPAK CR2 AED:
It is available in automatic and semi-automatic models. It features cprINSIGHT technology and Wi-Fi connectivity for real-time monitoring. Its rugged design and CPR feedback make it a strong AED for gyms or an AED for business environments with active use.
Zoll AEDs:
AHS offers tailored ZOLL AED 3 packages for corporate, school, gym, and church environments. This ensures each setting benefits from this enhanced CPR guidance.
- Zoll AED 3 Corporate Package: Full-color CPR feedback suits an AED for business needs.
- Zoll AED 3 School Package: Integrated child mode and readiness features make it an AED for schools under the HEARTS Act.
- Zoll AED 3 Gym Package: RapidShock™ analysis fits an AED for gyms requiring fast response.
- Zoll AED 3 Church Package: Simple design aids an AED for churches serving diverse groups.
Who Qualifies for Funding Under the HEARTS Act?
The HEARTS Act provides funding to enhance cardiac emergency preparedness, primarily targeting schools and childcare centers. Below is a detailed explanation of who qualifies for this funding, including a list of eligible entities, clarification on geographical and demographic priorities, and practical tips for determining if your organization is eligible.
Eligible Entities
The HEARTS Act focuses on specific entities that can directly apply for and receive funding. These include:
Eligible Entities: Local Educational Agencies (LEAs)
- Public Schools: This encompasses elementary and secondary public schools operated by local educational agencies under state law.
- Public Charter Schools: Charter schools that function as local educational agencies, as recognized by state regulations, are also eligible.
To qualify, these entities must collaborate with qualified healthcare entities, which are defined as:
- Organizations exempt from taxation under Section 501(c) of the Internal Revenue Code.
- Entities with the expertise to develop, train, and implement comprehensive AED (Automated External Defibrillator) and CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) programs.
Entities Not Directly Eligible:
- Community Centers: While community centers may benefit indirectly through partnerships or broader community initiatives, they are not primary recipients of HEARTS Act funding.
- Nonprofit Organizations: Nonprofits are not directly eligible unless they meet the criteria as a qualified healthcare entity partnering with an LEA.
- Private Schools: Funding is reserved for public educational institutions, so private schools do not qualify unless specified otherwise by state-level provisions.
How to Apply for HEARTS Act Funding
The HEARTS Act provides federal grants to support schools and childcare centers in acquiring Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs), implementing CPR training, and developing cardiac emergency response plans. This funding is exclusively available to local educational agencies (LEAs), such as public and charter schools. Below is a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the application process.
Step 1: Research Grant Opportunities Linked to the HEARTS Act
- Visit Official Government Websites: Check the HHS website (hhs.gov) or grants.gov, where federal funding opportunities are posted. Look for Notices of Funding Opportunities (NOFOs) related to the HEARTS Act, often categorized under school health or emergency preparedness programs.
- Consult State Agencies: Contact your state's education department or health for guidance. Some states may manage HEARTS Act funds or provide additional resources tied to federal grants.
- Confirm Eligibility: Verify that your institution qualifies as an LEA under state law. Eligible entities include public and charter schools, but private schools and non-LEA organizations are typically excluded.
- Watch for application windows, as federal grants often have specific cycles and deadlines.
Step 2: Gather Necessary Documentation
Organization Details: Submit proof of your school's status as an LEA, such as official registration, accreditation documents, or a letter from your district confirming eligibility.
Budget Plans: Prepare a detailed budget that outlines how the funds will be spent. Include costs for AED units (typically $1,000–$2,000 each), CPR training sessions, and resources for emergency response planning. Be specific and realistic in your estimates.
Emergency Preparedness Plans: Provide an overview of your school's current cardiac emergency protocols, if any, and explain how the funding will improve them. If no plan exists, describe how the grant will enable its development.
Partnership Agreement: The HEARTS Act mandates collaboration with a qualified healthcare entity, such as a nonprofit hospital or medical training organization. Include a memorandum of understanding (MOU) or letter of commitment from this partner.
Organize these documents early to ensure a smooth application process.
Step 3: Write a Compelling Application/Proposal:
- Clear Objectives: Define specific, measurable goals, such as "Install three AEDs in high-traffic areas" or "Train 80% of staff in CPR within six months."
- Detailed Budget: Break down costs (e.g., "$1,500 for two AEDs, $500 for training materials") and justify each expense. Transparency builds credibility.
- Implementation Plan: Describe how you'll execute the project. For example, explain where AEDs will be placed, who will conduct training, and how the emergency response plan will be integrated into school policies.
- Community Impact: Highlight the benefits to students, staff, and visitors. If your school serves a vulnerable population (e.g., rural or low-income areas), emphasize this to strengthen your case.
Your writing should be concise, professional, and aligned with the grant's priorities, such as improving cardiac safety and preparedness.
Step 4: Common Mistakes to Avoid During the Application Process
- Missing Deadlines: Federal grants have strict submission dates. Mark the deadline on your calendar and submit it at least a few days early to account for technical issues.
- Incomplete Applications: Ensure every required section is filled out and all documents are attached. Review the checklist in the NOFO before submitting.
- Ignoring Guidelines: Adhere to formatting, word count, and content instructions. Deviations can lead to automatic rejection.
- Overlooking the Partnership Requirement: Failing to secure and document a collaboration with a qualified healthcare entity is a critical mistake, as it's a core component of the HEARTS Act.
Tips on Determining Eligibility for Your Organization
To assess whether your organization qualifies for HEARTS Act funding, consider the following steps:
1. Verify Your Status as a Local Educational Agency:
- Confirm that your organization is a public or charter school recognized as an LEA under your state's education laws.
- Check with your state's education department if your classification is unsure
2. Secure a Qualified Health Care Partner:
- Identify a tax-exempt healthcare entity (e.g., a nonprofit hospital or medical training organization) that can support AED and CPR program development.
- Formalize this partnership through a written agreement or memorandum of understanding, as it may be required during the application process.
3. Understand State-Specific Requirements:
- Contact your state educational agency to clarify any additional eligibility criteria or application procedures unique to your region.
4. Prepare Application Materials:
- Gather documentation such as proof of LEA status, details of your healthcare partnership, and a proposed plan for AED acquisition, CPR training, and emergency response protocols.
- Highlight any factors (e.g., underserved location or high student population) that could strengthen your application.
5. Explore Alternatives if Ineligible:
- If your organization doesn't qualify (e.g., a community center or private entity), consider partnering with an eligible LEA to support community-wide cardiac safety efforts or seek other funding sources.
Applying for HEARTS Act funding is a valuable opportunity to enhance your school's ability to respond to cardiac emergencies. Stay proactive by regularly checking grants.gov or contacting your state's educational agency for updates on funding availability. If you need assistance, the HHS Office of Grants Management or your local health department can offer support. Your school can secure this life-saving funding with thorough research, organized documentation, a compelling proposal, and attention to detail.
Conclusion
The HEARTS Act, signed into law in December 2024, offers a lifeline to schools by funding AEDs, CPR training, and emergency response plans. Its benefits are clear: AEDs for schools can boost survival rates from sudden cardiac arrest (SCA)—a condition claiming over 350,000 lives yearly outside hospitals—from a mere 10% to as high as 40% with timely defibrillation. HEARTS Act protects students, staff, and visitors, creating safer environments where young lives are at stake.
At American Hospital Supply (AHS), we're dedicated to making AEDs accessible across all settings. Whether it's providing an AED for schools through HEARTS Act funding, an AED for churches to safeguard congregations, an AED for gyms to protect active members, an AED for home to keep families prepared, or an AED for businesses to ensure workplace safety, we offer top-quality devices and expert support.
Don't wait for an emergency to realize the value of an AED. Schools can apply for HEARTS Act grants now, while churches, gyms, businesses, and homes can explore options with AHS to bring these life-saving tools within reach. Every AED installed is a step toward a stronger, safer community.
Note:
This blog is intended solely for educational purposes. Any information related to medical supplies and personal healthcare should be considered general information, not professional medical advice. American Hospital Supply recommends consulting your doctor regarding any medical treatments or therapies referenced. American Hospital Supply does not make representations or warranties regarding the information relating to products or healthcare decisions referenced within this blog.
