First Aid Volunteers in Saalek District now have access to the KATRETTER app for immediate medical assistance

In a groundbreaking move, the KATRETTER app was introduced in August 2025 by Saalekreis County, aiming to revolutionise medical emergency response, particularly in cases of cardiac arrest. This innovative app, initially available in the Merseburg-Querfurt partial emergency services area, is now expanding its coverage to the entire Saalekreis and the city of Halle/Saale.

The KATRETTER app is designed to save lives by alerting nearby individuals with first aid training to medical emergencies. In the event of a cardiac arrest, emergency services activate the system, bridging the gap between the emergency call and the arrival of professional help.

The app works by searching for volunteers within the immediate vicinity, with a goal of finding at least three individuals to perform CPR and support each other. Once notified, helpers can confirm a mission and receive relevant information on their smartphones.

Initially, the KATRETTER system was utilised by a group of helpers with medical experience, such as doctors, nurses, and paramedics. However, after a month of successful deployment, the system is now open to a broader group of volunteers. It's worth noting that these helpers are covered by statutory accident insurance, providing them with the necessary protection.

The KATRETTER app was first introduced in the Halle/Northern Saalekreis emergency services area in 2022 and has since been adopted in many regions across Germany. For more information about the KATRETTER app and its scope of insurance, visit www.lksk.de/katretter and the websites of the German Social Accident Insurance (www.DGUV.de) and the Saxony-Anhalt Accident Insurance (www.UKST.de).

As the KATRETTER system continues to prove its effectiveness, it will be evaluated for potential availability to a wider group of people who can provide first aid. The app's ultimate goal is to significantly improve survival chances and reduce late effects after cardiac arrest by having volunteers reach the scene faster than emergency services.

In conclusion, the introduction of the KATRETTER app in Saalekreis County marks a significant step forward in emergency response, empowering everyday citizens to make a difference in critical situations.