The American Heart Association has announced a three-year, $4.6 million grant from the Leona M. and Harry B. Helmsley Charitable Trust to improve emergency medical response to heart attacks in rural Iowa.

The grant will support the launch in Iowa of Mission: Lifeline, an initiative to provide timely access to treatment for ST-elevated myocardial infarctions, a life-threatening condition in which blood flow is completely blocked to a portion of the heart. Administered by AHA's Midwest affiliate, the initiative will enhance critical elements of an optimal STEMI system, including a system-wide data tool for quality measurement and improvement; STEMI training and education for medical providers; protocol coordination for EMS and hospital personnel; regional plans for rapid transport and/or transfer of patients; and a public education campaign. In addition, funding will be provided to help hospitals and ambulance services acquire essential ECG equipment and training.

"This initiative represents a significant investment in Iowa's healthcare system, especially in our rural areas," said Dr. Patricia Quinlisk, medical director for Iowa Department of Public Health. "We are pleased to be partnering with the American Heart Association and the Helmsley Charitable Trust, and our hospitals and EMS services across the state to provide these important, lifesaving services to Iowans."