"As healthcare professionals we are all committed to the “chain of survival”. The concept was first introduced in the American Heart Association’s Guidelines for Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation and Emergency Cardiovascular Care published in 1992.  The chain of survival is a metaphor that illustrates a series of related interventions that will improve the outcomes of victims of cardiac and respiratory emergencies.  Each link in the chain identifies an early intervention: early access (call 9-1-1), early CPR, early defibrillation and early advanced life support.  Each early intervention requires the training of persons ranging from the lay rescuer, to the first responder, to EMTs, to the emergency room physician.  This training is delivered through the American Heart Association’s Emergency Cardiovascular Care (ECC) training network." - American Heart Association

Certification Options

• Certification: No prerequisites. Required for new cerifications, or if certification has expired more than two months prior. Course manuals are available for review prior to the course. Course Length: 3.5 - 5.5hrs, depending on class size.
• Recertification: Must have current card, or previous AHA card expired within last two months. Course Length: 1.5 - 2.5hrs, depending on class size.
• Challenge: Must have current AHA card. Must pass written test. Must pass practical skills test WITHOUT ERROR. (Remediation is not permitted. If you fail the practical skills portion, you must take the full course.)
• Online: Complete the online AHA instruction & exam. (There is a fee.) Contact an AHA instructor for the skills examination portion. (You can either contact an HTVFC instructor or contact EMI (610-969-0280) to schedule a skills check.
• Offsite: Use the American Heart Association web site find other CPR courses being offered in our area. 

This information obtained from this page on PA-DOH Web Site: Frequently Asked Questions For Prehospital EMS Personnel...

May a practitioner receive credit hours for CPR?

No, the law requires CPR in addition to a specified number of CE hours.

How does the American Heart Association (every 2 years) or American Red Cross (every year) CPR renewal requirement affect a practitioner's PA DOH certification?
This does not relate to a practitioner's PA DOH certification. It is the practitioner's decision as to whether or not to choose to comply with another organization's requirements. However, the practitioner must have a current CPR authorization when re-certifying with the PA DOH.

Which CPR program is a practitioner required to complete for PA DOH re-certification?
A practitioner must complete a CPR program approved by the PA DOH for prehospital practitioners and the program must include one (1) and two (2) person adult, infant, child CPR and obstructed airway. If a practitioner is not sure that a program is approved, the practitioner should contact the regional EMS council.