What is public access to defibrillation?

Public access to defibrillation (PAD) means making AEDs available in public and/or private places where large numbers of people gather or where people who are at high risk for heart attacks live.

Download the PAD Application



​What is an AED?

The automated external defibrillator (AED) is a computerized medical device. An AED can check a person’s heart rhythm. It can recognize a rhythm that requires a shock. And it can advise the rescuer when a shock is needed. The AED uses voice prompts, lights and text messages to tell the rescuer the steps to take.

AEDs are very accurate and easy to use. With a few hours of training, anyone can learn to operate an AED safely. There are many different brands of AEDs, but the  same basic steps apply to all of them. REMO does not recommend a specific model.



Why is notifying REMO important?

​​ It's important for the local EMS system to know where AEDs are located in the community. In the event of a sudden cardiac arrest emergency, the 9-1-1 dispatcher will know if an AED is on the premises and will be able to notify the EMS system as well as the responders already on the scene.



Why should a licensed physician or medical authority be involved with purchasers of AEDs?

​This is a quality control mechanism. The licensed physician or medical authority will ensure that all designated responders are properly trained and that the AED is properly maintained. He or she also can help establishments develop an emergency response plan for the AED program.



Why should people who are responsible for operating an AED receive CPR training?

​Early CPR is an integral part of providing lifesaving aid to people suffering sudden cardiac arrest. CPR helps to circulate oxygen-rich blood to the brain. After the AED is attached and delivers a shock, the typical AED will prompt the operator to continue CPR while the device continues to analyze the victim.



If AEDs are so easy to use, why do people need formal training in how to use them?

​An AED operator must know how to recognize the signs of a sudden cardiac arrest, when to activate the EMS system, and how to do CPR. It’s also important for operators to receive formal training on the AED model they will use so that they become familiar with the device and are able to successfully operate it in an emergency. Training also teaches the operator how to avoid potentially hazardous situations.



Can anyone buy an AED?

​AEDs are manufactured and sold under guidelines approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The FDA may require someone who purchases an AED to present a physician’s prescription for the device.



What steps should an organization take to buy an AED for its premises?

Public Access Defibrillation Check List

The following is a guide to aid in the completion of your Public Access Defibrillation Program

1. _____ Review and complete material in the Public Access Defibrillation packet

2. _____ Determine ‘feasibility of project’

           _____ Do we have sufficient resources (~ $3,000) to complete the project?

           _____ Is there enough management support to complete the project?

           _____ Do we have enough personnel?

3. _____ Evaluate and select equipment (cost, reliability, availability of repair/loaner)

4. _____ Evaluate and select training course sponsor

5. _____ Enter into a Collaborative Agreement with an Emergency Health Care Provider (EHCP)

6. _____ Purchase equipment and complete training

7. _____ Verify that all parts of the collaborative agreement are completed and implemented (written protocols, policies and procedures as stated in current DOH Policy Statement regarding PAD)

8. _____ File all forms and collaborative agreement with REMO

Any questions regarding this checklist should be directed to: REMO



Where can I find a Collaborative Agreement and a Notice of Intent?

You can locate all required paperwork and additional definitions in the FORMS section of this website.