Automated External Defibrillators

The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services has obtained a number of Automatic External Defibrillators (AED) through a grant from the Federal Office of Rural Health Policy. These AEDs were purchased to distribute to qualifying first responders in eligible rural counties and suburban zip codes in Missouri. Any public agency in Missouri may purchase AEDs at the reduced rate, from this contract. For details click on Public Purchases.

A first responder can be a first responder agency, ambulance service, fire department or law enforcement agency. First responders who do not presently have an AED will be a priority for placement of an AED. The Primary Care and Rural Health has made arrangements with the Missouri Emergency Medical Services Association, the University of Missouri and the American Heart Association to train first responders in each agency receiving an AED. The training will include new or refresher courses in CPR and the proper use of an AED.

Placement within eligible communities will be based on need, as determined by the Department. For information on that process, click on Placement Plan.