On December 26, 2024, President Biden signed the HEARTS Act, legislation designed to enhance cardiac safety in schools across the United States. Supported vigorously by the American Heart Association (AHA) and the Heart Rhythm Society as part of its centennial year of lifesaving efforts, this law brings us closer to the AHA’s mission to double cardiac arrest survival rates by 2030.
Overview of the HEARTS Act
The HEARTS (Health Education, Awareness, Research, and Training in Schools) Act focuses on several crucial areas to prevent cardiac emergencies in educational settings:
- Cardiac Emergency Response Plans: Mandates schools to develop and implement comprehensive plans to effectively respond to cardiac emergencies.
- CPR and AED Training: Ensures that both students and staff are trained in CPR and the use of Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs), which are critical in the crucial minutes following a cardiac arrest.
- AED Accessibility: Provides grants to aid schools in acquiring AEDs and the necessary support equipment, increasing the likelihood of survival during cardiac emergencies.
This legislation was inspired in part by the experiences of NFL player Damar Hamlin, whose life was saved by the prompt use of an AED and CPR after he suffered a cardiac arrest during a game in January 2023. His advocacy, alongside the AHA and other supporters, played a key role in pushing for the bill’s passage.
Why It Matters
Sudden cardiac arrest is a leading cause of death in the United States, affecting not only adults but children, many of whom experience these crises in schools or during sports activities. The presence of AEDs and trained individuals in schools can dramatically increase the survival rate from these incidents.
The HEARTS Act aims to equip schools with the tools and knowledge necessary to act swiftly and effectively in these critical situations, transforming schools into safer environments and fostering a culture of preparedness and immediate response.
Conclusion
As schools begin to implement the provisions of the HEARTS Act, the focus will be on creating safer learning environments and ensuring that students, staff, and visitors are prepared to respond to cardiac emergencies. This law not only advances public health but also serves as a testament to the power of advocacy and collaboration in addressing critical healthcare issues.
For further details on the HEARTS Act and its implications, you can visit the American Heart Association’s official newsroom or read the full text of the bill on the U.S. Congress website.
Read more about the HEARTS Act on the American Heart Association’s newsroom or view the bill text on Congress.gov.