American Heart Association Supports Kinston Community Health Center with Funding for Automated External Defibrillator on Mobile Medical Unit
Kinston Community Health Center (KCHC) is pleased to announce that the American Heart Association (AHA) has provided funding for the purchase of an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) for the organization's Mobile Medical Unit, further strengthening emergency preparedness and enhancing patient safety for individuals receiving care throughout eastern North Carolina.
The AED will be housed on KCHC's Mobile Medical Unit, which delivers high-quality primary care services directly to communities where access to healthcare can be limited. The mobile clinic regularly serves patients in Pink Hill, Mt. Olive, and Goldsboro, bringing comprehensive healthcare closer to home for residents who may otherwise experience barriers to care.
The addition of an AED ensures that the Mobile Medical Unit is equipped to respond quickly in the event of a sudden cardiac emergency while providing medical services in the community. Sudden cardiac arrest can occur without warning, and immediate access to an AED significantly increases the likelihood of survival when used promptly alongside CPR.
"Our Mobile Medical Unit allows us to meet patients where they are, providing convenient access to quality healthcare," said Anna Kinsey, Community Development Director, of Kinston Community Health Center. "We are incredibly grateful to the American Heart Association for investing in the safety of our patients, staff, and community members. Having an AED readily available on the Mobile Medical Unit provides an additional layer of preparedness that can make a life-saving difference."
KCHC's Mobile Medical Unit serves as an extension of the health center, offering primary care, chronic disease management, preventive services, screenings, laboratory services, health education, and care coordination. By bringing healthcare directly into communities, KCHC helps reduce transportation barriers and improves access for patients managing chronic conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, and heart disease.
Heart disease remains the leading cause of death in the United States, making rapid emergency response and community preparedness essential. The American Heart Association continues to lead efforts to improve cardiovascular health and increase survival from cardiac emergencies through education, advocacy, and community partnerships.
"Kinston Community Health Center shares our commitment to improving heart health and ensuring communities have access to lifesaving resources," said Margaret Sharp, Community Impact Director of American Heart Association. "We are proud to support the placement of an AED on the Mobile Medical Unit, helping ensure patients and staff have access to this critical equipment wherever care is delivered."
The partnership reflects a shared commitment between the American Heart Association and Kinston Community Health Center to improve health outcomes and strengthen access to quality healthcare throughout the region.
About Kinston Community Health Center
Kinston Community Health Center is a Federally Qualified Health Center dedicated to providing comprehensive, high-quality, affordable healthcare. KCHC serves communities across eastern North Carolina through its medical, dental, behavioral health, pharmacy, enabling services, and Mobile Medical Unit programs, ensuring patients have access to compassionate, patient-centered care close to home.
About the American Heart Association
The American Heart Association is a global force dedicated to changing the future of health for all. Through groundbreaking research, education, advocacy, and community programs, the Association works to improve cardiovascular health and reduce deaths caused by heart disease and stroke.
