The AARC Apex Recognition Award is a recognition program for respiratory care departments in acute care hospitals, long-term care facilities, home medical equipment (HME) companies, educational programs, and dedicated transport teams.
AARC developed the Apex Recognition Award to recognize the significant contribution of respiratory therapists and highlight best practices in respiratory care that are aligned with evidence-based medicine. This program will also help consumers choose healthcare facilities that promote patient safety by providing access to respiratory therapists to deliver their care.
The application period for the 2023–2024 Apex award has closed. The 2024–2025 application cycle will reopen later in 2023.
Benefits of Recognition
Earning the Apex Recognition Award distinguishes your facility by demonstrating that it has a commitment to excellence in professional development, evidence-based care, patient safety, and quality improvement. An Apex designation showcases the value of respiratory therapists to your organization and community.
Categories of Recognition
There are five categories for recognition: acute care hospitals, long-term care facilities, home medical equipment (HME) companies, educational programs, and dedicated transport teams. Detailed explanations of the standards and a list of required documentation for each category are provided in the “Standards and Documentation” files below.
Acute Care Hospital
Use these resources to apply for acute care hospital recognition:
Long-Term Care Facility
Use these resources to apply for long-term care facility recognition:
Home Medical Equipment (HME) Company
Use these resources to apply for home health recognition:
Educational Program
Use these resources to apply for respiratory care education program recognition:
Dedicated Transport Team
Use these resources to apply for dedicated transport team recognition:
Application Process
The application period for the 2023–2024 Apex award has closed. The 2024–2025 application cycle will reopen later in 2023. Step-by-step instructions will be posted here once the new cycle opens.
Apex Recognition Award Deadlines and Details
The application period for the 2023–2024 Apex award has closed. The 2024–2025 application cycle will reopen later in 2023. More information will be posted here once the new cycle opens.
Need Help?
If you have questions about the recognition process or award, please complete the form below and a member of the APEX Committee will contact you:
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