The American Heart Association (AHA) is a research-based organization that provides guidance and evidence-based standards to other organizations like the American Red Cross (ARC) for many years. The AHA has funded more than $4.5 billion in heart disease and stroke research over the years.
Here are a few similarities and differences between the AHA and the ARC :
Similarities
- Both the American Heart Association and the American Red Cross offer in person, online and hybrid classes.
- All materials are generally the same with a few minor differences in the names of the programs as well as some minor changes in the application of the program.
- Both have COVID safe practices.
- Both offer top quality instruction and are based off the research provided by the AHA.
Differences
- ARC is now offering a 1 year provisional certification due to COVID. The student is able to take an online class and obtain a provisional certification that can be transferred to a full certification once the skills have been completed at a later time. This is handy only if your employer will accept this. The AHA program does not offer this service at this time however offer modifications due to COVID.
- The cost may differ depending on your local provider.
For a list of courses offered by the American Heart Association, please visit their website https://cpr.heart.org/en/course-catalog-search.
For a list of courses offered by the American Red Cross, please visit www.redcross.org.
Unsure which course is right for you? Some employer’s or organizations will have a preference which certification they require. It’s strongly recommended that you check with them first, to determine if they have a preference.
If you are wondering which American Heart Association course is right for you, please contact our office at 860-786-1789 and one of our service associates can assist you choosing the best course for your needs.