The American Heart Association and Laerdal Medical have announced the nationwide launch of Self-Guided Learning, a flexible resuscitation training delivery model that enables learners to complete HeartCode Complete coursework and skills verification on their own schedule. This new option addresses the challenges faced by millions of healthcare, workplace safety, and emergency response professionals who must regularly complete credentialed resuscitation training while balancing demanding schedules and limited access to in-person instruction.
Self-Guided Learning is an independent training delivery option that allows learners to complete HeartCode Complete Basic Life Support (BLS), Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS), and Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) courses at a time and location that fits their schedule. The program consists of a self-paced online activity that can be completed using any compatible device, followed by a hands-on, self-guided skills session taken at a CPR Verification Station learning center. These stations use advanced simulation technology to provide real-time, audiovisual, objective feedback and coaching without instructor oversight.
This new delivery model expands the Association's global CPR training footprint, which already includes instructor-led, blended learning, and a digital CPR training solution. Each method offers BLS, ACLS, and PALS courses, with learners receiving an American Heart Association Course Completion eCard upon successful completion. John Meiners, chief of Mission Aligned Businesses for the American Heart Association, stated, "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. Self-Guided Learning is an important part of that approach, helping prepare more people to act when lives are on the line and bringing us closer to our goal of doubling cardiac arrest survival by 2030."
As of March 2026, Self-Guided Learning and CPR Verification Station learning centers are available in 47 states, with expansion to all 50 soon. Students can locate nearby centers using CPR Finder by entering their ZIP code. Alf-Christian Dybdahl, CEO of Laerdal Medical, commented, "This delivery model represents another significant milestone in our organizations' shared mission and collaboration to transform how CPR is taught and learned." The Self-Guided Learning model is ideal for healthcare professionals and students preferring independent learning, allied health providers, remote and rural staff, emergency medical services professionals, and initial or renewal learners needing an AHA Course Completion eCard.
The American Heart Association is the first and only U.S. training organization directly involved in creating resuscitation scientific guidelines and education. Laerdal Medical, a world leader in healthcare education and resuscitation training, has collaborated with the Association for over 20 years. For more information on Self-Guided Learning, visit CPR Finder. To explore instructor-led and blended training options, visit cpr.heart.org. Information on digital CPR training programs is available at rqipartners.com.
