Cardiac arrest survival dropped sharply during the COVID-19 pandemic, revealing critical disparities in emergency outcomes. Black and Hispanic communities faced the steepest declines in survival after out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA). A study in Resuscitation found rates fell from 9.9% in 2019 to 9% in 2020, with minority neighborhoods hit hardest.
COVID-19’s Impact on Cardiac Arrest Survival Rates
Before the pandemic, survival rates were improving due to faster EMS response and increased CPR training. COVID-19 overwhelmed emergency services and reversed those gains. According to UT Southwestern, survival dropped over 16% in Black and Hispanic communities, compared to 8% in white-majority areas.
Emergency Survival Disparities Across Racial Groups
Systemic healthcare gaps and delayed EMS response times played a major role. Fewer individuals in underserved neighborhoods received bystander CPR—a key factor in cardiac arrest survival. A report from the American Heart Association confirmed that fear of virus exposure discouraged many from helping in public spaces.
CPR Access and Community Readiness
Even after vaccines rolled out, gaps in preparedness and care access continued. A PubMed review emphasized the need for more CPR training and AED access, especially in areas with high cardiac arrest risk.
Moving Forward With Equity
Experts stress the importance of community involvement and tailored public health interventions. Programs led by local schools, churches, and nonprofits can improve readiness. Organizations like the American Heart Association are working to expand CPR education where it’s needed most.
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Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. Please consult a licensed healthcare provider for personal medical advice.
