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Overview of the Profession

Respiratory Therapists are healthcare professionals who specialize in diagnosing, treating, and managing patients with breathing disorders or conditions that affect the lungs. They work with individuals of all ages, from premature infants with underdeveloped lungs to elderly patients with chronic respiratory diseases such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, or emphysema. Respiratory Therapists play a critical role in helping patients improve their breathing function and maintain overall lung health.

In addition to providing therapeutic treatments, Respiratory Therapists operate and monitor ventilators, administer oxygen therapy, and assist patients with breathing exercises. They work in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, intensive care units (ICUs), rehabilitation centers, and home health care environments. Respiratory Therapists also respond to emergency situations, providing life-saving care to patients experiencing respiratory distress, cardiac arrest, or trauma.

Collaboration with other healthcare providers is an essential aspect of the Respiratory Therapist’s role. They work closely with physicians, nurses, and other specialists to create and implement individualized care plans that address each patient’s unique respiratory needs. Their expertise is vital in improving patient outcomes and enhancing the quality of life for those with chronic or acute respiratory conditions.

Education and Training Requirements for Respiratory Therapists

Becoming a Respiratory Therapist requires completing specialized education and training in respiratory care to ensure that professionals have the skills to assess and treat a wide range of respiratory conditions. Respiratory Therapists must be proficient in managing complex equipment and providing critical care to patients with respiratory issues.

Associate’s or Bachelor’s Degree in Respiratory Therapy
The minimum educational requirement for Respiratory Therapists is an associate degree in respiratory therapy, though some professionals choose to pursue a bachelor’s degree for advanced opportunities. Associate programs typically take two years to complete, while bachelor’s programs may take four years. These programs are offered at community colleges, technical schools, and universities, and they must be accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care (CoARC).

Coursework in these programs includes subjects such as anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, pathophysiology, and respiratory care procedures. Students also receive hands-on training in clinical settings, where they gain experience working with patients and operating respiratory care equipment, such as ventilators and oxygen therapy devices.

Licensure and Certification
All states (except Alaska) require Respiratory Therapists to be licensed. To obtain licensure, individuals must graduate from an accredited respiratory therapy program and pass the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) credentialing exams. The NBRC offers two levels of certification:

• Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) – This is the entry-level credential for Respiratory Therapists.
• Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) – This is the advanced-level credential, which is often required for more specialized roles or supervisory positions.

The RRT credential is increasingly becoming the standard for Respiratory Therapists, especially in hospital settings where advanced care and decision-making skills are required.

Continuing Education and Professional Development
To maintain licensure, Respiratory Therapists must complete continuing education (CE) requirements, which vary by state. CE ensures that therapists stay current with the latest advancements in respiratory care, including new technologies, treatment protocols, and patient safety practices. Professional organizations, such as the American Association for Respiratory Care (AARC), provide CE opportunities through workshops, seminars, and online courses.

Respiratory Therapists may also pursue additional certifications in specialized areas of respiratory care, such as neonatal-pediatric care, pulmonary function testing, or critical care. These certifications allow therapists to expand their expertise and career opportunities.

Core Skills and Competencies of Respiratory Therapists

Respiratory Therapists require a combination of technical expertise, clinical skills, and interpersonal abilities to effectively assess, treat, and manage patients with respiratory conditions. These skills are essential in helping patients improve their breathing function and overall lung health.

Assessment and Diagnostic Skills
Respiratory Therapists are responsible for evaluating patients’ respiratory function using diagnostic tests such as pulmonary function tests (PFTs), arterial blood gas analysis, and spirometry. They assess patients’ breathing patterns, oxygen levels, and lung capacity to determine the extent of respiratory impairment. These assessments help therapists identify the underlying causes of breathing difficulties and guide the development of individualized treatment plans.

Technical Proficiency in Respiratory Equipment
Respiratory Therapists must be proficient in using a wide range of respiratory care equipment, including ventilators, oxygen therapy devices, nebulizers, and non-invasive ventilation (NIV) machines. They are responsible for setting up, operating, and monitoring these devices to ensure that patients receive the correct level of respiratory support. Respiratory Therapists working in critical care settings, such as intensive care units (ICUs), must be skilled in managing life-support systems for patients who require mechanical ventilation.

Therapeutic Intervention and Treatment
Respiratory Therapists provide a variety of therapeutic treatments to help patients improve their lung function. This includes administering medications through inhalers or nebulizers, performing chest physiotherapy to clear mucus from the airways, and guiding patients through breathing exercises to strengthen respiratory muscles. Respiratory Therapists also assist patients in managing chronic respiratory conditions, such as asthma or COPD, by teaching them techniques to prevent flare-ups and improve their quality of life.

Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving
In emergency and critical care situations, Respiratory Therapists must think quickly and make decisions to stabilize patients experiencing respiratory distress or failure. They collaborate with other healthcare providers to adjust treatment plans, modify ventilator settings, or administer life-saving interventions. Strong problem-solving skills are essential for Respiratory Therapists, especially when managing complex cases where multiple factors contribute to a patient’s respiratory condition.

Patient Education and Communication
Respiratory Therapists play a key role in educating patients and their families about respiratory health and how to manage chronic conditions. They provide guidance on using inhalers or oxygen therapy devices, explain lifestyle changes to improve lung function, and teach patients how to monitor their breathing at home. Effective communication skills are crucial for Respiratory Therapists to ensure that patients understand their treatment plans and feel confident in managing their respiratory health.

Empathy and Compassion
Respiratory Therapists work with patients who are often struggling to breathe or experiencing discomfort due to respiratory conditions. Empathy and compassion are important traits for Respiratory Therapists, as they provide support and reassurance to patients who may be anxious or frightened. Building trust with patients and offering encouragement throughout the treatment process is essential in promoting patient compliance and improving outcomes.

Work Environment for Respiratory Therapists

Respiratory Therapists work in various healthcare settings, each offering unique opportunities to help patients with breathing disorders and lung conditions. The work environment often dictates the types of patients treated, the complexity of respiratory issues managed, and the pace of care.

Hospitals
Hospitals are one of the most common work environments for Respiratory Therapists, particularly in emergency rooms (ERs), intensive care units (ICUs), and pulmonary care departments. In hospitals, Respiratory Therapists provide care for patients experiencing acute respiratory distress, asthma attacks, or other breathing emergencies. They also manage ventilators for critically ill patients, assist in weaning patients off mechanical ventilation, and provide respiratory care during surgeries or post-operative recovery. In this fast-paced environment, Respiratory Therapists work closely with physicians, nurses, and other healthcare providers to deliver life-saving interventions.

Intensive Care Units (ICUs)
Respiratory Therapists working in ICUs care for the most critically ill patients, including those with severe lung diseases, trauma, or conditions such as acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). These patients often require mechanical ventilation or other advanced respiratory support, and Respiratory Therapists are responsible for managing the settings on ventilators, monitoring patients’ progress, and adjusting treatments as needed. ICU Respiratory Therapists work under high-pressure conditions and are integral to the care of patients who depend on ventilatory support.

Rehabilitation Centers
In rehabilitation centers, Respiratory Therapists help patients recovering from surgeries, injuries, or long-term illnesses that have impacted their lung function. These patients may require respiratory therapy as part of their recovery from conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), pneumonia, or chest surgeries. Respiratory Therapists in these settings focus on improving patients’ lung capacity, teaching breathing exercises, and providing guidance on managing chronic respiratory conditions. They work closely with other rehabilitation specialists to create comprehensive recovery plans.

Home Health Care
Respiratory Therapists in home health care settings provide respiratory support to patients who are discharged from hospitals but still require long-term care. These patients may have chronic respiratory conditions such as COPD, pulmonary fibrosis, or require ongoing oxygen therapy or ventilator support at home. Home health Respiratory Therapists educate patients and caregivers on how to use respiratory equipment, manage oxygen levels, and monitor their breathing. Working in home health care allows Respiratory Therapists to provide personalized care in the patient’s own environment, promoting greater independence and improved quality of life.

Pulmonary Function Testing (PFT) Labs
Some Respiratory Therapists work in pulmonary function testing (PFT) labs, where they conduct diagnostic tests to assess lung function in patients. These tests help diagnose conditions such as asthma, emphysema, or pulmonary fibrosis and are essential for determining the severity of a patient’s respiratory condition. In this setting, Respiratory Therapists perform tests such as spirometry, plethysmography, and diffusion capacity, providing physicians with valuable information to guide treatment plans.

Long-Term Care Facilities
In long-term care facilities, Respiratory Therapists care for elderly patients or individuals with chronic respiratory conditions that affect their ability to breathe. These therapists manage oxygen therapy, assist with breathing treatments, and monitor respiratory function for residents with conditions such as COPD, sleep apnea, or lung cancer. Respiratory Therapists in long-term care settings focus on improving residents’ comfort, preventing respiratory complications, and enhancing overall quality of life.

Salary and Job Outlook for Respiratory Therapists

Respiratory Therapists enjoy competitive salaries and a promising job outlook due to the increasing prevalence of respiratory conditions and the growing demand for healthcare professionals skilled in respiratory care. Factors such as geographic location, work setting, and level of experience can influence earning potential and job opportunities for Respiratory Therapists.

Average Salary
The median annual salary for Respiratory Therapists in the United States is approximately $60,000 to $65,000, although this can vary depending on factors such as location, work environment, and experience. Respiratory Therapists working in hospitals, ICUs, or specialized pulmonary care centers may earn higher salaries, especially those with advanced certifications or extensive experience in critical care. Therapists working in rural or underserved areas may have different salary expectations compared to those in metropolitan regions, where demand for healthcare services is higher.

Factors Influencing Salary
Several factors contribute to variations in salary for Respiratory Therapists:

• Experience: Respiratory Therapists with more years of experience, particularly those who have advanced certifications such as Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT), often earn higher wages. Advanced roles, such as supervisory positions or clinical specialists, come with increased responsibilities and higher compensation.
• Work Setting: Respiratory Therapists working in hospitals, especially in critical care units like ICUs or emergency rooms, tend to earn higher salaries due to the complex nature of their work. Therapists in outpatient clinics, rehabilitation centers, or long-term care facilities may earn slightly less but often enjoy more regular hours and less intensive work environments.
• Geographic Location: Therapists working in states with high demand for respiratory care, such as California, New York, or Texas, tend to earn higher wages. Rural areas or regions with lower costs of living may offer lower salaries but can provide unique job opportunities and greater autonomy for Respiratory Therapists willing to work in underserved communities.

Job Outlook
The job outlook for Respiratory Therapists is very positive, with the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting a 14% growth rate in employment from 2021 to 2031. This growth rate is faster than the average for other occupations and is driven by several factors, including an aging population, increasing rates of chronic respiratory conditions such as COPD and asthma, and advancements in medical technologies that improve respiratory care.

High Demand in Hospitals and Long-Term Care Settings
The demand for Respiratory Therapists is especially high in hospitals, where they are needed to care for critically ill patients, manage ventilators, and provide life-saving interventions for those experiencing respiratory distress. Long-term care facilities and home health care services also have a growing need for Respiratory Therapists, as more elderly patients require ongoing respiratory support and chronic condition management. The increased emphasis on preventive care and early intervention for respiratory conditions further supports the strong demand for Respiratory Therapists in various healthcare settings.

Career Path and Opportunities for Advancement for Respiratory Therapists

Respiratory Therapists have several opportunities for career advancement and specialization within the field of respiratory care. Whether through pursuing advanced certifications, leadership roles, or academic and research positions, Respiratory Therapists can shape their careers to align with their professional goals and interests.

Advanced Certifications and Specializations
Respiratory Therapists can enhance their skills and career opportunities by obtaining advanced certifications. The Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) credential, which is the advanced level certification, is becoming the industry standard in many hospitals and critical care settings. In addition, Respiratory Therapists can pursue specialized certifications in areas such as:

• Neonatal/Pediatric Specialist (NPS) – Focuses on treating infants and children with respiratory conditions.
• Critical Care Specialist (ACCS) – Specializes in providing care for critically ill patients in intensive care units.
• Pulmonary Function Technologist (PFT) – Specializes in performing pulmonary function tests to assess lung function and diagnose respiratory conditions.
• Sleep Disorder Specialist (SDS) – Focuses on diagnosing and treating patients with sleep-related breathing disorders such as sleep apnea.

These certifications allow Respiratory Therapists to work in more specialized roles, increasing their earning potential and access to advanced job opportunities.

Leadership and Administrative Roles
With experience, Respiratory Therapists may move into leadership or administrative roles, such as clinical supervisors, department heads, or respiratory care managers. In these roles, they oversee teams of therapists, manage the daily operations of respiratory care departments, and ensure that patient care meets the highest standards. Leadership roles come with increased responsibility and compensation, as well as the opportunity to shape respiratory care programs and policies within a healthcare facility.

Education and Research Careers
Respiratory Therapists who are interested in education can pursue academic roles, teaching respiratory therapy students in colleges or universities. Educators play a vital role in training the next generation of Respiratory Therapists, sharing their clinical experience and knowledge of respiratory care practices. In addition to teaching, Respiratory Therapists may engage in clinical research, contributing to the advancement of respiratory care techniques, treatments, and technology.

Continuing Education and Professional Development
Respiratory Therapists are required to complete continuing education (CE) to maintain their licensure, but CE also offers opportunities for career growth. CE courses cover topics such as new respiratory care technologies, patient safety, advanced clinical skills, and leadership development. Attending conferences, workshops, or seminars also provides Respiratory Therapists with valuable networking opportunities and insights into emerging trends in respiratory care.

Entrepreneurship and Private Practice
Some Respiratory Therapists may choose to start their own respiratory care businesses or offer consulting services to healthcare facilities. Entrepreneurship provides flexibility in designing respiratory care services, and it allows therapists to develop innovative treatment approaches or respiratory wellness programs. While starting a business requires both clinical expertise and business acumen, it offers the potential for financial and professional rewards.

Licensure and Continuing Education for Respiratory Therapists

Licensure and continuing education (CE) are essential for Respiratory Therapists to practice legally and remain current with advancements in the field. These requirements ensure that Respiratory Therapists maintain their competency and provide the best care to patients with respiratory conditions.

Licensure Requirements
Respiratory Therapists must be licensed to practice in all states (except Alaska), and licensure requirements typically include completing an accredited respiratory therapy program and passing national certification exams. The National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) offers two primary credentials:

• Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT): This is the entry-level credential required for licensure in most states.
• Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT): This advanced credential is increasingly becoming the standard in many healthcare settings, particularly hospitals and ICUs. Many employers prefer or require the RRT for more complex clinical roles.

Licensure requirements may vary slightly by state, but the majority of states require candidates to pass one or both of the NBRC credentialing exams and meet specific state criteria. Respiratory Therapists should consult their state’s licensing board to ensure compliance with all state-specific requirements.

Maintaining Licensure and Certification
To maintain their licenses, Respiratory Therapists are required to renew their licenses periodically, typically every one to three years depending on the state. Part of this renewal process involves completing continuing education (CE) hours to ensure therapists stay up-to-date with the latest respiratory care techniques, technology, and patient safety standards.

The NBRC also requires Respiratory Therapists to participate in continuing competency programs. For therapists holding the CRT or RRT credential, maintaining certification involves completing CE activities, retaking the exam, or earning advanced certifications, depending on the specific recertification requirements.

Continuing Education (CE) Requirements
Continuing education is a vital part of professional development for Respiratory Therapists. Most states require Respiratory Therapists to complete 20 to 30 CE hours every one to two years as part of the license renewal process. CE courses can cover a range of topics, including:

• Advances in ventilator technology
• Patient safety and infection control
• Chronic disease management, such as COPD or asthma
• Pulmonary diagnostics and testing
• Ethical considerations in respiratory care

Many professional organizations, such as the American Association for Respiratory Care (AARC), provide CE opportunities through conferences, webinars, workshops, and online courses. CE not only helps Respiratory Therapists stay current with best practices but also opens up opportunities for career growth by expanding their knowledge and clinical skills.

Advanced Certifications
For Respiratory Therapists who want to specialize in areas like neonatal/pediatric care, critical care, or pulmonary function testing, obtaining advanced certifications is an important step in their career development. These certifications, offered through the NBRC, require additional coursework, clinical experience, and passing specialized exams. Advanced certifications allow Respiratory Therapists to take on more complex clinical roles, work in specialized settings, and enhance their earning potential.

Specializations within the Field of Respiratory Therapy

Respiratory Therapists have the opportunity to specialize in various areas of respiratory care, allowing them to focus on specific patient populations, advanced treatments, and specialized respiratory conditions. Specialization enhances career prospects, earning potential, and the ability to provide advanced care.

Neonatal/Pediatric Respiratory Therapy
Respiratory Therapists who specialize in neonatal and pediatric care work with newborns, infants, and children who have respiratory disorders, such as underdeveloped lungs, congenital conditions, or respiratory infections. Neonatal Respiratory Therapists often work in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs), where they provide life-saving care for premature infants who require ventilatory support. Pediatric Respiratory Therapists may also work with children diagnosed with asthma, cystic fibrosis, or other chronic respiratory conditions, providing ongoing treatment and support to improve their quality of life.

Critical Care Respiratory Therapy
Respiratory Therapists specializing in critical care work in intensive care units (ICUs) and emergency rooms, treating patients who are critically ill or injured. These therapists manage mechanical ventilators and provide advanced respiratory support for patients with life-threatening conditions such as acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), traumatic injuries, or sepsis. Critical care Respiratory Therapists are skilled in operating complex equipment and responding to emergencies where rapid interventions are required to stabilize patients’ breathing.

Pulmonary Function Testing (PFT) Specialist
PFT specialists conduct diagnostic tests to evaluate lung function and help diagnose respiratory conditions such as asthma, COPD, or pulmonary fibrosis. Respiratory Therapists in this specialization use equipment such as spirometers, plethysmographs, and diffusion capacity tests to measure how well a patient’s lungs are functioning. These tests help physicians determine the severity of respiratory conditions and develop appropriate treatment plans. PFT specialists often work in hospitals, outpatient clinics, or diagnostic labs.

Sleep Disorder Specialist
Respiratory Therapists specializing in sleep disorders focus on diagnosing and treating patients with sleep-related breathing issues, such as obstructive sleep apnea. They work in sleep centers or laboratories, conducting sleep studies (polysomnography) to monitor patients’ breathing patterns, oxygen levels, and sleep quality. Sleep disorder specialists collaborate with physicians to develop treatment plans that may include the use of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) devices or other therapies to help patients manage their sleep disorders and improve overall health.

Home Care Respiratory Therapy
Home care Respiratory Therapists provide respiratory care services to patients in their homes, particularly those with chronic respiratory conditions such as COPD, emphysema, or pulmonary fibrosis. These therapists educate patients and their families on using home respiratory equipment, such as oxygen concentrators or ventilators, and monitor patients’ progress remotely. Home care Respiratory Therapists play a crucial role in ensuring that patients receive ongoing support and respiratory care while maintaining independence in their home environments.

Pulmonary Rehabilitation Specialist
Pulmonary rehabilitation specialists work with patients who are recovering from lung conditions, such as COPD, pneumonia, or lung surgery, to improve their breathing and overall physical function. These Respiratory Therapists develop rehabilitation programs that include breathing exercises, physical conditioning, and education on managing chronic lung conditions. Pulmonary rehabilitation specialists often work in outpatient clinics, rehabilitation centers, or hospitals, helping patients improve their lung function and quality of life over time.

Job Search Tips for Respiratory Therapists

Whether you are a new graduate or an experienced Respiratory Therapist seeking a new opportunity, a thoughtful job search strategy is essential. These job search tips can help you find the right position and advance your career in respiratory care.

Tailor Your Resume and Cover Letter
When applying for Respiratory Therapist positions, it’s important to customize your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant clinical experience, certifications, and specialized skills. Be sure to include key accomplishments, such as successful patient outcomes, experience with specific equipment (e.g., ventilators or pulmonary function testing devices), and any advanced certifications (e.g., Registered Respiratory Therapist or Neonatal/Pediatric Specialist). Your cover letter should convey your passion for patient care and explain how your skills align with the role you are applying for.

Utilize Job Boards and Professional Networks
Several healthcare-specific job boards, such as AARC Career Center, Indeed, and Health eCareers, offer listings for Respiratory Therapist positions in various settings, including hospitals, long-term care facilities, and home health agencies. Networking is also a valuable tool in finding job opportunities. Join professional organizations like the American Association for Respiratory Care (AARC), where you can access exclusive job postings, continuing education resources, and professional events. Attending conferences or local chapter meetings can help you connect with other Respiratory Therapists and learn about potential job openings that may not be widely advertised.

Consider Geographic Location and Work Setting
Your choice of location and work setting can have a significant impact on your job responsibilities, salary, and career satisfaction. Respiratory Therapists working in hospitals, particularly in emergency rooms or ICUs, handle more complex and acute cases, while those in outpatient clinics or long-term care facilities may deal with more stable, chronic conditions. Geographic location can also influence your opportunities, with metropolitan areas offering higher demand and higher salaries, while rural areas may provide more flexibility and a wider range of responsibilities.

Prepare for Interviews
When interviewing for Respiratory Therapist positions, be ready to discuss your clinical experience, how you handle challenging cases, and your ability to operate specialized respiratory equipment. Employers may ask how you manage high-stress situations, your experience in critical care settings, or your familiarity with advanced respiratory techniques. Be prepared to share examples of how you’ve helped patients manage chronic respiratory conditions, assisted in emergency interventions, or collaborated with a multidisciplinary healthcare team to improve patient outcomes.

Evaluate Compensation and Benefits
When considering job offers, it’s important to evaluate the full compensation package, including salary, health insurance, retirement benefits, and opportunities for continuing education. Some employers may offer reimbursement for advanced certifications or leadership development programs, which can help you advance in your career. Be sure to assess whether the job provides opportunities for professional growth, particularly if you are interested in specializing or moving into a leadership role.

Explore Career Advancement Opportunities
Look for positions that offer room for growth, such as roles that allow you to pursue specialization in areas like neonatal care, critical care, or pulmonary rehabilitation. Employers who support continuing education and professional development can help you advance your career more quickly. Mentorship programs or opportunities to lead respiratory care teams are also signs that a role will provide you with long-term career advancement.

FAQs for Respiratory Therapists

1. What is the difference between a Respiratory Therapist and a Pulmonologist?
Respiratory Therapists and pulmonologists both work in respiratory care, but their roles are different. Respiratory Therapists are allied healthcare professionals who focus on assessing, treating, and managing patients with breathing disorders. They operate respiratory equipment, administer breathing treatments, and provide education to patients with conditions like COPD, asthma, or pneumonia. Pulmonologists are medical doctors who specialize in diagnosing and treating diseases of the lungs and respiratory system. They perform advanced diagnostic procedures, prescribe treatments, and manage complex lung diseases.

2. How long does it take to become a Respiratory Therapist?
It typically takes two to four years to become a Respiratory Therapist. The minimum requirement is an associate degree in respiratory therapy, which takes about two years to complete. Some therapists choose to pursue a bachelor’s degree, which may take four years. After completing the degree program, graduates must pass the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) exams to become licensed and certified.

3. Can Respiratory Therapists specialize in specific areas?
Yes, Respiratory Therapists can specialize in areas such as neonatal/pediatric respiratory therapy, critical care, sleep disorders, or pulmonary rehabilitation. Specializing often requires additional certifications or advanced training, such as becoming a Neonatal/Pediatric Specialist (NPS) or a Sleep Disorder Specialist (SDS). Specialization allows Respiratory Therapists to work with specific patient populations or manage more complex respiratory conditions.

4. Do Respiratory Therapists need to complete continuing education?
Yes, Respiratory Therapists are required to complete continuing education (CE) to maintain their licensure and certifications. The number of CE hours required varies by state, but most Respiratory Therapists need to complete 20 to 30 hours every one to two years. CE helps Respiratory Therapists stay updated with the latest developments in respiratory care, including new technologies, treatments, and best practices.

5. What is the job outlook for Respiratory Therapists?
The job outlook for Respiratory Therapists is very positive, with the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting a 14% growth rate from 2021 to 2031. This growth is driven by the increasing prevalence of chronic respiratory diseases, such as COPD and asthma, as well as the growing demand for healthcare services for aging populations. Respiratory Therapists are in high demand in hospitals, long-term care facilities, and home health settings, where they provide essential respiratory support and care.