Landmark Statement on Education and Credentialing Issued

January 10, 2003
To support a stronger profession, the AARC, CoARC, and NBRC have all approved a statement to encourage advanced education and credentialing for respiratory therapists. While reiterating their support for associate degree programs, the groups want to ensure the profession of respiratory care is positioned for the future by encouraging pursuit of advanced training, education and credentials by the individuals in this country practicing respiratory care.

"There is a great need in the profession for higher levels of education and credentialing," said Margaret Traband, immediate past president of the AARC. "The types of jobs we are asked to perform as respiratory therapists are increasingly requiring higher level assessment skills. These types of critical thinking abilities are inherent in those who are prepared for the RRT credential."

It was felt by the organizations that in order to remain a competitive player in the health care market place, the profession needs to increase the number of respiratory therapists who have advanced education and credentials. While associate degree programs, which provide the majority of the needed human resources for the field, are an important foundation for the profession, increasing the number of practitioners with advanced credentials and education is essential if we are going to continue to grow and prosper as a profession.

The three organizations each have a stake in the betterment of the profession. The AARC, as the professional association, directs professional growth and the development of the art and science of the profession. It does this through its science journal Respiratory Care, through its large national education meetings such as the International Respiratory Congress, and by representing the profession in Washington DC on matters of the health care policy. The Committee of Accreditation of Respiratory Care accredits school programs and the National Board for Respiratory Care administers the credentialing examinations for the profession.

Respiratory Care: Advancement of the Profession Tripartite Statements of Support