Respiratory Therapists – Essential and In High Demand Now, More Than Ever Before

What does a respiratory therapist do?

A respiratory therapist helps people who are having trouble breathing. They work under the direction of physicians and treat a wide range of patients, from premature infants whose lungs are not fully developed, to elderly people with lung disease. They give patients oxygen, manage ventilators and administer medicine to the lungs.

Scope of Practice

Respiratory therapists work in a dynamic environment and here are just a few of the many things these essential health care workers do:

• Assist with diagnosing lung or breathing disorders.
• Evaluate patients and perform tests and clinical studies.
• Determine appropriate therapy and treatment options with physicians.
• Analyze blood and sputum in the lab.
• Manage equipment and devices needed to help people who can’t breathe normally on their own.
• Educate patients and families about lung diseases and breathing disorders

Respiratory therapists may seek additional training to earn certification in an area such as pediatric care, critical care, pulmonary diagnostics, and other specialties. Click here for additional information.

Strong Job Outlook

It's no accident the respiratory therapist is #16 in the "100 Best Jobs" ranking from U.S. News & World Report. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of respiratory therapists is projected to grow 13%, with a median annual salary of $77,960.

Take advantage of the following:

MetroRate

Missouri students qualify for Kansas in-state tuition for this academic program, if your official home residence is in one of the following counties: Bates, Buchanan, Cass, Clay, Clinton, Henry, Jackson, Johnson, Lafayette, Platte or Ray. More info.

U-CHaMP Program
The Underserved Communities Have a Medical Provider (U-CHaMP) program provides students from underserved backgrounds an opportunity to enroll in an academic program in the School of Health Professions. Students will gain leadership skills, receive unique mentoring and advising opportunities, enjoy immersive clinical experiences and become eligible to apply for a substantial scholarship. Learn more.

Next Steps

• Review the prerequisite courses for admission (min. 2.5 GPA).
• Take a look at the application requirements.
• Consider the available scholarships and financial aid.

For any questions contact Alex Lopez at alopez12@kumc.edu