Healthcare Provider Courses (HCP)
What is the difference between the Heart and Stroke Foundation BLS program and the Red Cross BLS program?
Many employers, education programs or volunteer groups will be very specific about which BLS provider they wish you to have. We recommend speaking with them before registering or calling in and asking one of our knowledgeable Customer Service Team Members for assistance.
What is the most requested BLS program in Alberta workplaces?
The most prominent employer is Alberta Health Services. All AHS employees are required to hold a Heart and Stroke BLS Provider certification. However, they will accept a Red Cross BLS certification for new hires only.
Can I change my BLS certification from one provider to the other?
Yes. The Red Cross will permit a BLS recertification from another provider if it is current.The Heart and Stroke does require any candidate who is from another agency to complete the BLS Provider Renewal Prerequisite Challenge prior to attending a renewal.
Can I attend a recertification or renewal if my current certification has expired (even by one day)?
Red Cross says No.
Heart and Stroke says yes if the candidate has completed the prerequisite challenge prior.
AHASTI recommends that participants register to attend a recertification a minimum of 4 weeks prior to the expiry date, in the event a class has low enrolment or a change in the participant's work or personal schedule, illness, or other unforeseen circumstances.