October 22, 2007–REGINA–Group Medical Services (GMS), a nonprofit insurance company, strengthened its commitment to the health of Saskatchewan communities today with the announcement of a $300,000 donation to provide automated external defibrillators (AEDs) to 83 schools across the province of Saskatchewan.
“We're very pleased to partner with Saskatchewan schools in this effort” said GMS President and CEO, Shirley Raab. “This province-wide distribution of AED devices to schools is the first of its kind in Canada. Schools have agreed to establish ongoing training and awareness programs for teachers and students. The use of AEDs has proven to result in dramatic increases in survival from cardiac episodes.”
High schools were selected as ideal locations for the AED installations. There have been a growing number of at-school deaths in otherwise healthy children. High school students are a high-risk group for sudden cardiac episodes, especially when involved in high-stress physical activities. With schools being the social and cultural hub in many communities, access to AED
devices will benefit students, staff, extended families, friends and the general population. Schools also provide the perfect environment for training and the development of health education and awareness programs.
For more information, see www.gms.ca.