The American Heart Association and Laerdal Medical announced the nationwide launch of Self-Guided Learning, a flexible resuscitation training delivery model designed for healthcare professionals, workplace safety personnel, and emergency responders who must complete recurring credentialed training. This model enables learners to complete HeartCode Complete Basic Life Support, Advanced Cardiac Life Support, and Pediatric Advanced Life Support courses on their own schedule through a combination of online coursework and hands-on skills verification at CPR Verification Station learning centers.
The importance of this development lies in addressing significant barriers to resuscitation training access. Millions of professionals globally require regular certification while managing demanding schedules and limited access to in-person instruction. Self-Guided Learning represents a strategic expansion of training options that maintains scientific rigor while increasing accessibility. John Meiners, chief of Mission Aligned Businesses for the American Heart Association, stated that this approach removes barriers while maintaining the science and standards for which the organization is known.
The training model 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. This technology objectively verifies skills while offering immediate correction, ensuring learners meet certification standards. Upon successful completion, participants receive an American Heart Association Course Completion eCard, the same credential provided through traditional training methods.
This initiative directly supports the American Heart Association's goal of doubling cardiac arrest survival by 2030 by preparing more people to respond effectively during emergencies. 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 additional countries, ensuring that Self-Guided Learning maintains the same scientific foundation as instructor-led training.
As of March 2026, Self-Guided Learning and CPR Verification Station learning centers are available in 47 states, with expansion to all 50 states planned. Learners can locate nearby centers using CPR Finder by entering their ZIP code, which directs them to Premier Distributor websites for course completion instructions. The model is particularly valuable for healthcare professionals and students seeking flexible training, allied health providers, remote and rural healthcare staff, emergency medical services professionals, and both initial and renewal certification seekers.
Alf-Christian Dybdahl, chief executive officer of Laerdal Medical, described Self-Guided Learning as an easily accessible and effective option for those who prefer independent learning. Laerdal has collaborated with the American Heart Association for over 20 years to develop resuscitation education and training. The partnership between the organizations continues through RQI Partners, which provides information on digital CPR training programs at rqipartners.com.
This training expansion comes at a critical time when healthcare systems face staffing challenges and professionals juggle multiple responsibilities. By offering a scientifically validated alternative to traditional classroom training, Self-Guided Learning has the potential to increase the number of certified responders across healthcare facilities, workplaces, and communities. The American Heart Association's existing training footprint includes instructor-led, blended learning, and digital CPR training solutions, with Self-Guided Learning now completing the spectrum of available options. For additional information about instructor-led and blended training options, courses are available through cpr.heart.org.
