A Comprehensive Regulation to Strengthen Public Health
The “Regulation on Portable Automated External Defibrillators” establishes a national framework to prevent delays in responding to sudden cardiac arrests outside healthcare facilities. The regulation covers a wide spectrum ranging from public institutions and private sector enterprises to public transportation vehicles and public spaces with large crowds.
Emphasizing that the time elapsed before professional medical teams arrive is critically important in sudden cardiac arrests, the Ministry of Health notes that this regulation will directly contribute to reducing the risk of death and permanent disability.
Device Standards Clarified: National Compliance Requirement for AEDs
The regulation defines in detail the minimum mandatory features that AED devices must possess. Accordingly, the devices must:
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Analyze heart rhythm using chest-attached pads,
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Provide automatic shocks when necessary via a fully automated system,
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Include Turkish and English voice command support,
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Transmit battery status, location information, and ECG data to AED-Net.
In addition, all devices must be registered in the Ministry’s Product Tracking System (ÜTS). These standards aim to enhance device reliability and promote systems that minimize user error during emergencies.
A National Monitoring Network with AED-Net
Alongside the regulation, a national registry system called AED-Net is being established to monitor AED devices. Individuals and institutions acquiring AEDs will be required to register the device’s serial number, location, and placement information within 30 days.
Data generated after each use of the device will also be stored and submitted to provincial health directorates. This system will allow continuous monitoring of all AEDs in the country, ensuring maintenance processes are tracked and devices remain ready for use at all times.
Mandatory Areas Defined in Annex-1: Gradual Implementation Begins
The Annex-1 list of the regulation defines, year by year, the areas where AEDs must be available.
By the end of 2026, the following locations must have AEDs:
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Airports and airfields
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Sports halls and stadiums with a capacity over 10,000
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Large shopping malls
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Large-scale sports venues and high-density indoor facilities
By the end of 2027:
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Accommodation facilities with more than 100 beds
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Dormitories with a capacity of 100 or more students
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Institutions with 200 or more employees on the same campus
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Large places of worship and public-use areas
By the end of 2028:
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Gas stations
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Certain areas where urban and intercity passenger transport is provided
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High-density sea and land transportation terminals
New Obligations for Campuses and Importance for IGU Physiotherapy Department
Under Annex-1, campuses with 200 or more students or employees must have AEDs by the end of 2027. This regulation aims to raise health and safety standards on university campuses.
For the Istanbul Gelisim University Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation Department, the regulation not only strengthens on-campus health equipment but also necessitates updates to educational content. Since AEDs are crucial tools in emergency intervention processes related to physiotherapy practices, enhancing students’ knowledge and skills in this area becomes essential for the academic program.
Effective Date and Implementation Process
The regulation will enter into force on 1 January 2026, and the Ministry of Health will be authorized to clarify any uncertainties that may arise during its implementation. Institutions are expected to complete device procurement, registration procedures, and user training in a timely manner.
Conclusion: A National Step to Strengthen Emergency Response Capacity
The new regulation on standardizing AED use, ensuring their registration, and increasing their presence in public spaces is considered an important step toward bringing Türkiye closer to international standards in responding to sudden cardiac arrests. The regulation is expected to create comprehensive and sustainable benefits for public health.
