MPs approve the use of defibrillators by non-medical personnel

Parliament has granted final approval for first aid involving automated external defibrillators to be administered by both medical professionals and individuals without medical education. The amendments were adopted at the second reading in the plenary hall today.

The topic sparked discussion during a meeting of the Parliamentary Health Committee last week. The initial version of the text stipulated that the use of automated external defibrillators should be performed primarily by medical professionals, and by non-medical personnel only after completing specialized training regulated by an ordinance from the Ministry of Health.

Cardiologist Prof. Ivo Petrov objected to this proposal, pointing out that such regulation defeats the very purpose of automated defibrillators. According to him, these devices are designed and registered for use specifically by untrained people, including children.

As a result of the proposals made, the texts were revised during the Health Committee meeting. In their final form, they allow the administration of first aid with automated external defibrillators by any citizen, regardless of medical education or training. The law also provides for an exemption from criminal liability for individuals who have attempted to provide assistance without a successful outcome.

The adopted amendments also introduce the possibility for public places where automated external defibrillators will be located to be determined by an ordinance of the Minister of Health.