Harnessing technology to strengthen emergency response in Greater Cincinnati

CINCINNATI, MAY 18, 2026 — When someone experiences a cardiac arrest, heart attack or stroke, fast, coordinated care can make the difference between life and death. Each year, more than 350,000 cardiac arrests occur outside of the hospital in the United States – and 90% of these are fatal. The American Heart Association is launching a new effort to strengthen how emergency response systems communicate and coordinate care—bringing together local leaders in Cincinnati and 12 other cities to help improve outcomes for patients. Through this initiative, the Association will work with EMS agencies, hospitals and public health partners to examine how information is shared across the chain of survival and identify opportunities to improve coordination and reduce time to treatment. “Effective communication across the chain of survival is essential to patient outcomes. This initiative brings national priorities into local action by working with EMS leaders to strengthen care delivery in communities," said Deborah Hayes, Greater Cincinnati American Heart Association Board President. “The American Heart Association is uniquely positioned to lead this work and advance the future of emergency response.” The effort, financially supported by T-Mobile, is part of the American Heart Association’s Mission: Lifeline® EMS program, which supports coordinated, guideline-directed care for patients experiencing cardiovascular emergencies. It also contributes to the Association’s Nation of Lifesavers™ movement, by furthering the national goal to double survival rates from out-of-hospital cardiac arrest by 2030. In Greater Cincinnati local stakeholders may participate in system of care discussions, share insights and help identify strategies that can improve emergency response across agencies and care settings. Insights from this work will also contribute to broader national efforts to strengthen emergency communication systems. ### About the American Heart Association The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. Dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities, the organization has been a leading source of health information for more than one hundred years. Supported by more than 35 million volunteers globally, we fund groundbreaking research, advocate for the public’s health, and provide critical resources to save and improve lives affected by cardiovascular disease and stroke. By driving breakthroughs and implementing proven solutions in science, policy, and care, we work tirelessly to advance health and transform lives every day. Connect with us on heart.org , Facebook , X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.