AMR Topeka: Cardiac Arrest Survival Rate Higher Than National Average

When a heart stops, every second matters. In Topeka, more of those seconds are turning into second chances – thanks to paramedics and emergency medical technicians (EMT) whose quick action is saving lives.

As the nation observes National Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Week (May 18–24), American Medical Response (AMR) Topeka, a division of Global Medical Response (GMR), is proud to spotlight a result that reflects the heart of this year's theme — “We Care. For Everyone.” With a cardiac arrest survival rate nearly twice the national average, this milestone is a testament to the lifesaving impact EMS professionals make every day.

According to newly released annual data from the Cardiac Arrest Registry to Enhance Survival (CARES), AMR reported 18.9% of cardiac arrest patients successfully recovered to the point of hospital discharge. That number is approximately 80% higher than the national average of 10.5%.

“These aren’t just numbers — they’re people,” said Mickey Huber, Operations Manager with AMR Topeka. “A pulse restored means someone’s life was handed back to them. And that happens because of a system that’s ready, a crew that’s trained and a mission that never wavers.”

Saving Lives Starts with the System Behind the Scenes
The local response model is based on national guidelines, collaborations with the local hospital systems, first responder agencies and the Shawnee County Joint Medical Director. The protocol emphasizes early defibrillation, high-performance CPR and effective post-resuscitation care.

• The local system is designed to give patients the best possible chance of survival through:
• Real-time CPR feedback for compression quality
• Early defibrillation with field-focused resuscitation
• Advanced medication and airway management for brain preservation
• Hospital coordination that ensures seamless post-arrest care

“It's not luck — it's preparation,” said Ann Antrim, Clinical Education Specialist with AMR Topeka. “Every positive outcome reflects the strength of the entire emergency response system — from our emergency medical dispatchers who provide CPR instructions over the phone, to our law enforcement and fire department partners who are often first on scene.”

Training the Team, Strengthening the Outcome
While paramedics and EMTs lead the clinical response, AMR Topeka also invests in community education and ongoing Emergency Medical Services (EMS) training. Empowering both the public and clinical crews with lifesaving skills ensures stronger outcomes when seconds matter.

AMR offers free, compression-only CPR education to schools, nonprofits, and community groups. For businesses or organizations seeking higher level certified instruction, AMR provides American Heart Association (AHA) CPR classes.

A Number That Means Everything
A survival rate nearly twice the national average means more than performance — it means possibility across Topeka. It means a hand that was once still found its pulse again. A voice that had gone silent spoke again. And a future that nearly vanished is still being written.

“We remember every save,” said Ann Antrim. “And every single one reminds us why we do this work — because tomorrow should still be possible.”

About National EMS Week
National EMS Week, recognizes the dedication, compassion, and professionalism of EMS providers across the nation. This year’s theme, “We Care. For Everyone.”, emphasizes the importance of EMS professionals in delivering high-quality care to individuals in critical moments. National EMS Week is organized by the American College of Emergency Physicians in partnership with the National Association of Emergency Medical Technicians, and is supported by a network of EMS agencies, hospitals, and public safety organizations. Throughout the week, communities across the country participate in recognizing the lifesaving efforts of EMS teams and promoting the critical role they play in public health and safety.

For more information on EMS Week activities and resources, visit emsweek.org