Respiratory Therapist Career Outlook

There is a nice job market for Respiratory Therapists (RTs) at this time.  In addition, there is expected to be a 26% rise in demand for Respiratory Therapists within the next 10 years.  That is an impressive increase in comparison to the 15% increase expected for general employment!

The average Respiratory Therapist Salary can range from approximately $25,000. per year to approximately $64,000. per year.  The variation in salary will depend on the therapist’s education level, experience, and locality.  That having been said, median income per year is still in the relatively higher range at about $56,000.  This salary range is exclusive to the United States.  In other countries a Respiratory Therapist’s salary is quite a bit less.  This may be because of a lack of requirements in accreditation.  Also note that salary increases for RTs would be likely as the demand for such therapists rises.

Specifications for this job involve assisting people with respiratory problems by diagnosing their individual needs and administering the appropriate therapy for that patient.   A Respiratory Therapist can be especially helpful in the treatment of chronic lung problems by teaching patients how to cope with the condition. Registered Respiratory Therapists will assist patients who are in more critical conditions.

While most RTs are employed at hospitals, there are many avenues for advancement in the field.  Jobs are available in doctor’s offices, nursing homes, respiratory clinics and sleep clinics.  Some therapists have moved into supervisory positions, management, or even administration levels at hospitals.  Others have established their own business ventures by going into home care or diagnostic services.  Possibilities are also available with manufacturers for equipment production or distribution and in education at Respiratory Therapy Schools.  It should be understood that Registered Respiratory Therapists will have the most opportunities for advancement.

CRTs or Certified Respiratory Therapists require an Associates of Applied Science Degree.  RRTs or Registered Respiratory Therapists will also need a Bachelors Degree and additional exams which are conducted by the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC).  Masters Degrees (MPH) and even Doctorates Degrees (PhD and EdD) are also obtainable.

Accredited Respiratory Therapy Schools are available at many colleges and universities in every state of the U.S. except Alaska.  A number of these schools also offer online courses.  Since it is important to find an accredited school, the Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care (CoARC) provides a list of accredited programs in the United States.

Some of the courses offered at Respiratory Therapy Schools include Anatomy, Physiology and Pathophysiology, Chemistry, Physics, Microbiology, Diagnostics, Pharmacology, Healthcare Law, and Medical Ethics.

In summary, there is possibility for much growth in the field of Respiratory Therapy.  There are also many opportunities for advancement as a Respiratory Therapist.  Degrees are available from a wide choice of accredited Respiratory Therapy Schools. Median income is within the overall normal range in the United States and may rise as demand for therapists increases.  Therefore this profession offers job stability, personal satisfaction, and a variety of choices in direction.

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