4 MINUTE Community AED PROGRAM IN Sandy Springs

Northside, Sandy Springs team up to fight cardiac arrest

Northside Hospital has partnered with the City of Sandy Springs, Avive Solutions and the Sandy Springs Fire Department to launch a community-wide initiative aimed at improving survival rates for sudden cardiac arrest (SCA). The effort is part of Avive’s 4 Minute Community™ Program, a public health initiative that equips trained volunteers with connected AEDs to deliver lifesaving care before first responders arrive. Why it matters: SCA is a critical medical emergency that occurs when the heart unexpectedly stops beating normally. In the United States alone, there are more than 356,000 out-of-hospital cardiac arrests reported every year, according to the Sudden Cardiac Arrest Foundation, with nearly 90% resulting in fatalities.

“By helping bring this life-saving technology to our community, we’re not just funding a project — we’re investing in people, in preparedness and in the power of immediate action,” noted Kim Anker, director of Northside Hospital Foundation.

The 4 Minute Community Program arms CPR-trained community volunteers with connected AEDs that can be dispatched via 911, aiming to deliver life-saving shocks within minutes.

"This partnership brings together innovative technology, passionate local leadership and generous community support —all working toward one lifesaving goal. We're honored to help drive this initiative forward,” Anker added.

Northside is also supporting the program in Forsyth County.