The American Association for Respiratory Care (AARC) launched the Apex Recognition Program in 2017 to honor respiratory therapy programs that consistently meet the highest standards in education, quality, and patient care.
Much like the Magnet Program for nursing, the Apex Program requires facilities to provide comprehensive documentation on various factors essential for delivering top-notch care. Apex honorees excel in areas, including staff education and credentialing, as well as the implementation of protocols that ensure safe and effective care delivery. Apex designation is available for acute care hospitals, post-acute care facilities, long-term care settings, international acute care, home medical equipment suppliers, dedicated transport programs, and respiratory therapy education programs.
Organizations awarded Apex recognition distinguish themselves as leaders in respiratory care within their communities, demonstrating a commitment to excellence in professional development and evidence-based quality care. The AARC is proud to recognize these organizations with its 2026–2027 Apex Designation:
Acute Care
- Advent Health for Children
- Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center
- Cooper University Hospital
- Dell Seton Medical Center at the University of Texas
- Emory Decatur Hospital
- Emory Hospital – Midtown
- Emory Saint Joseph’s Hospital
- Houston Methodist Continuing Care TMC
- Houston Methodist Continuing Care – Katy
- Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital
- University of Kansas Health System
- University of Maryland Baltimore Washington Medical Center
- UT Southwestern Medical Center
Acute Care International
- King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre
Dedicated Transport Team
- Advocate Children’s Hospital Neonatal and Pediatric Transport Team
- Medstar Georgetown University Hospital Respiratory Transport Team
Education
- Daytona State College
- Middle Georgia State University
- Southern Connecticut State University AS-to-BSRT Program
- University of Kansas Medical Center Respiratory Care and Diagnostic Sciences BSRC Degree Program
- The Ohio State University
You can also view previous Apex award recipients.
Details about the next application cycle for Apex will be available in the spring of 2026. Organizations interested in learning more about the award and the application process are encouraged to visit the Apex Recognition Award Information page.
