Alternative Career Paths for Respiratory Therapists
FranU InsiderJust breathe. Most people rarely think about this basic reflex, unless they’re burdened with emphysema, asthma, cystic fibrosis or another heart or lung condition. As a respiratory therapist (RT), you can choose from several career paths to help others breathe easier.
Hospitals and Long-Term Care Facilities
Most people needing respiratory care receive treatment in hospitals and long-term care facilities, where RTs are available around the clock to intubate patients, operate ventilators, administer oxygen and medication, monitor patients and provide education about illnesses and treatments.
Fittingly, most respiratory therapists work in those settings. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, about 80% of the respiratory therapists in the U.S. are employed in hospitals.
Why Should Respiratory Therapists Consider Alternate Career Paths?
All respiratory therapists are certified medical professionals who have passed a national exam. That means they’re well-qualified to assist the millions of people in the U.S. with respiratory conditions — including 25 million with asthma alone.
But not all respiratory therapists want to hold a job that often necessitates working nights, weekends and holidays. Some may want to combine their medical skills with business ones, while others find public health enticing. And RTs don’t need to work directly with patients to make a difference.
Fortunately, other pathways exist, often requiring no additional degrees. The scientific acumen, evidence-based practice and critical thinking competencies you gain through a respiratory therapy degree will equip you for a wide array of other fields you may not have considered.
Where Else Can Respiratory Therapy Graduates Work?
Hospitals and specialized care facilities aren’t the only places to find respiratory therapy graduates. They might put their skills to work in laboratories, offices, home care settings, telehealth centers and other locations.
Durable Medical Equipment (DME)
Equipment such as ventilators, oxygen systems and CPAP machines can increase mobility and improve quality of life for individuals with respiratory conditions. In this role, you work with patients in their own homes as you assess their needs, provide necessary devices and demonstrate their use.
Research
Pharmaceutical companies, device manufacturers and healthcare providers rely on research to determine the efficacy of new drugs, devices and treatments. Whether you work in a lab, sleep-study clinic or hospital, you can utilize your expertise as a respiratory therapist by designing and executing clinical studies, enrolling participants and analyzing results. With additional education, you might move into a project management or teaching role.
Case Management
Patients with cardiopulmonary disease have complex care needs. Respiratory therapists are uniquely positioned to help patients navigate their condition, with the American Association for Respiratory Care actively promoting the hiring of respiratory therapists as disease managers. In settings such as hospitals, acute care clinics or telehealth centers, you would coordinate care among providers, assist patients in understanding diagnoses and treatments, recommend home respiratory equipment, monitor patient progress and work with insurers and providers to ensure continuous coverage.
Pulmonary Rehabilitation
For patients with chronic lung disease, exercise and education can boost fitness and make it possible to lead a more active life. Respiratory therapists can play key roles on pulmonary rehab teams. Often working in outpatient clinics, you might assess patient health, teach breathing techniques and other exercises, introduce lifestyle changes and collaborate with other members of the care team.
Sleep Disorder Clinic
Getting a good night’s sleep is a cornerstone of good health, but it remains elusive for millions. Sleep disorders are complex, demanding expertise in supplemental oxygen, masks, pharmacology and much more — all topics that respiratory therapists learn about in college. When you work in a sleep disorder clinic, you’ll use a sleep test known as polysomnography to monitor patients and diagnose issues.
Asthma Education
Children and adults with asthma don’t have to live in fear of the disease. Asthma education programs can help individuals develop care plans, handle breathing emergencies and recognize when attacks are imminent, avoiding the need for emergency care and allowing them to lead healthy, active lives. As a respiratory therapist, you can contribute to these programs while working in schools, community health centers and public health departments.
Medical Sales
Put your clinical experience to use as a product or marketing specialist or sales representative for medical device manufacturers. Your knowledge will earn you trust among others in the field — potentially leading to higher sales (and greater income). Sales positions often involve travel, giving you the chance to get outside the office.
Find the RT Career Path That Fits Your Goals at FranU
Service takes many forms. In the Bachelor of Science in Respiratory Therapy degree program at Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady University (FranU), we encourage you to explore how you can apply your knowledge and skills to a wide range of roles in the field — not just the traditional paths.
Our faith-based program, extensive clinical experience in Baton Rouge institutions and 100% employment rate stand out. It’s our faculty who truly make the difference, though. In small classes, they’ll get to know you and guide you to a career that meets your goals.