Creating a vision for respiratory care in 2015 and beyond

Area of Science:

• Respiratory Care
• Medical Professions
• Healthcare Workforce Development

Background:

• The respiratory care profession has a 60-year history marked by continuous change and innovation.
• Current medical advancements, evolving payment models, and workforce challenges necessitate a reevaluation of the respiratory therapist (RT) role.
• The contemporary RT role differs significantly from that of 60 years ago, prompting questions about future responsibilities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To envision the future role of respiratory therapists (RTs) beyond 2015.
• To identify potential new roles and responsibilities for RTs.
• To outline the educational, training, and competency-documentation requirements for future RT practice.

Main Methods:

• Establishment of a dedicated task force by the American Association for Respiratory Care (AARC).
• Focus on identifying future roles, responsibilities, and necessary competencies for RTs.
• Analysis of current trends in medicine, healthcare economics, and workforce demographics.

Main Results:

• Initial findings from the AARC task force on the future of respiratory care are presented.
• The study highlights the dynamic nature of the profession and the need for adaptation.
• Key areas for future RT development are explored, including education and training.

Conclusions:

• The respiratory care profession requires strategic planning to adapt to future healthcare demands.
• Defining new roles and ensuring adequate training are crucial for RTs to maintain effective patient care.
• The findings provide a foundation for shaping the future educational and professional trajectory of respiratory therapists.