Heartbeat International: making "poor" hearts beat better.

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Heartbeat International is a little-known 501(c)(3) charitable organization, which for the past 25 years has been responsible for the implantation and follow-up of cardiac implantable electronic devices in over 9000 indigent recipients in predominantly developing countries. Although the concept was founded in Guatemala over 30 years ago, it took the vision and drive of Dr. Henry D. McIntosh, M.D., M.A.C.C, to create Heartbeat International in 1984. DISCUSSION: The organization works through Pacemaker Banks established by local Rotary International chapters and other civic organizations in 24 countries over four continents and is dependent on the generosity of the implantable devi..