The demand for respiratory therapists has been steadily increasing, driven by a growing awareness of respiratory health and the rising prevalence of chronic lung conditions such as asthma, COPD, and respiratory infections.
As essential healthcare professionals, respiratory therapists play a vital role in diagnosing, treating, and managing patients with breathing difficulties, ensuring that their lungs function at their best.
In this article, we’ll explore the job outlook for respiratory therapists, why they are in high demand, and how this profession offers promising opportunities for those entering the healthcare field.
Are Respiratory Therapists in Demand?
Yes, respiratory therapists are in demand due to the increasing prevalence of conditions like asthma, COPD, and other respiratory diseases.
The aging population and advancements in medical technology also contribute to this demand, creating more job opportunities in hospitals, clinics, and home healthcare settings for respiratory care professionals.
Job Outlook for Respiratory Therapists
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the job outlook for respiratory therapists is highly favorable, with employment expected to grow by 13 percent from 2022 to 2032—much faster than the average for all occupations.
This significant growth is driven by an aging population, which will increase the prevalence of respiratory conditions such as pneumonia and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), leading to higher demand for respiratory therapy services.
Additionally, the healthcare industry’s focus on reducing hospital readmissions and expanding outpatient care will create further opportunities for respiratory therapists in clinics and doctors’ offices.
Each year, approximately 8,600 job openings for respiratory therapists are projected, mainly due to the need to replace workers who transition to other careers or retire. Respiratory therapists work primarily in hospitals, but there is also growing demand in nursing care facilities, physicians’ offices, and home healthcare settings.
The role involves a range of duties, from diagnosing and treating patients with breathing difficulties to managing life-support systems and providing education on using medical equipment.
Respiratory Therapist Salary
The median annual salary for respiratory therapists is approximately $77,960, with those in hospitals earning slightly more on average. The profession also offers opportunities for specialized work, such as managing ventilators in emergency settings, caring for patients with sleep apnea, or providing home care services.
Despite the physical demands and potential exposure to infectious diseases, the rewarding nature of the work and the strong job prospects make respiratory therapy a promising career choice.
Reasons Why Respiratory Therapy is a Growing Field
Respiratory therapy is a growing field due to several compelling factors, including the following:
- Increasing Prevalence of Chronic Respiratory Conditions
- Increased Longevity
- Rising Prevalence of Sleep Disorders
- The Shift from Smoking to Vaping
- Growing Focus on Disease Prevention
- Environmental Changes Impacting Respiratory Health
- Increased Accessibility to Respiratory Care
- Rising Lung Infections Post-COVID-19
- High Burnout Among Healthcare Workers
- The Rewarding Nature of Respiratory Therapy
Keep reading or watch this video to learn more about the reasons why respiratory therapists are in such high demand.
1. Increasing Prevalence of Chronic Respiratory Conditions
The rising prevalence of chronic respiratory conditions, such as asthma, COPD, and pulmonary fibrosis, is another significant factor driving the demand for respiratory therapists.
With factors like air pollution, smoking, and genetic predispositions contributing to the development of these long-term conditions, more people require ongoing respiratory care. Respiratory therapists are crucial in managing these chronic illnesses, providing treatments, and educating patients on how to maintain their lung health.
As the number of individuals living with chronic respiratory diseases continues to grow, so too does the need for skilled respiratory therapists to support their care and improve their quality of life.
2. Increased Longevity
One of the key reasons for the rising demand for respiratory therapists is the fact that people are living longer than ever before. Advances in medical technology and improved healthcare treatments have significantly extended life expectancy.
However, with increased longevity comes a higher likelihood of age-related respiratory conditions, such as COPD, asthma, and emphysema.
As more people reach older ages, the demand for respiratory therapists to manage these chronic conditions will continue to grow, making their role increasingly vital in the healthcare system.
3. Rising Prevalence of Sleep Disorders
The growing prevalence of sleep disorders, particularly sleep apnea, is another factor driving the demand for respiratory therapists.
Sleep apnea, which affects an estimated 25 million Americans, is characterized by interruptions in breathing during sleep and can lead to serious cardiovascular and respiratory complications if left untreated.
As awareness of sleep apnea increases and more people are diagnosed, the need for respiratory therapists to provide specialized care and treatment for this condition is on the rise.
4. The Shift from Smoking to Vaping
While traditional smoking rates have declined, the surge in vaping has introduced new respiratory health challenges. Vaping, though often perceived as a safer alternative to smoking, carries its own risks, including respiratory issues like bronchiolitis obliterans, commonly known as “popcorn lung.”
As the number of individuals who vape continues to grow, so does the need for respiratory therapists to address the potential long-term effects on lung health.
Their expertise will be crucial in managing and treating these emerging respiratory conditions associated with vaping.
5. Growing Focus on Disease Prevention
In recent years, there has been a significant shift towards prevention and wellness, with more people recognizing the importance of proactive measures to avoid chronic respiratory diseases like COPD.
This increased awareness has fueled demand for respiratory therapists who can offer expert guidance on disease prevention strategies.
As the healthcare industry continues to embrace the prevention model, the need for respiratory therapists skilled in educating patients on maintaining respiratory health and preventing illnesses is expected to rise, making them indispensable in this evolving landscape.
6. Environmental Changes Impacting Respiratory Health
Environmental changes, particularly worsening air pollution, are increasingly affecting respiratory health worldwide. Poor air quality is a major contributor to respiratory issues, and as pollution levels continue to rise, so will the number of individuals experiencing respiratory problems.
This growing environmental burden highlights the need for more respiratory therapists to care for affected patients. Additionally, climate change is exacerbating respiratory health risks, particularly in urban areas where the “heat island” effect intensifies heat-related respiratory issues.
As global temperatures climb, more people will suffer from conditions like asthma, further driving the demand for respiratory therapy services.
7. Increased Accessibility to Respiratory Care
Over the years, awareness and accessibility of respiratory care have significantly improved, allowing more people to receive the treatment they need for lung diseases.
With the rise in lung infections and breathing disorders, hospitals have expanded their respiratory care departments, leading to an increase in the number of respiratory therapists. This growing infrastructure not only addresses the current needs but also underscores the continued demand for respiratory therapists.
As respiratory care becomes more accessible and widespread, the profession will remain in high demand, ensuring that patients receive the critical care they need.
8. Rising Lung Infections Post-COVID-19
Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, lung infections have been on the rise, as the virus primarily targets the respiratory system. This surge in respiratory illnesses has led to an increased demand for treatment, thereby elevating the need for respiratory therapists.
Additionally, the lingering effects of COVID-19 can predispose individuals to other respiratory infections, such as pneumonia, further amplifying the need for specialized care.
Respiratory therapists have become essential frontline professionals in treating these conditions, highlighting their critical role in the ongoing healthcare response to respiratory infections.
9. High Burnout Among Healthcare Workers
Burnout, characterized by physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion, has become a prevalent issue among healthcare workers, including respiratory therapists.
A survey conducted by the AARC revealed that nearly 80% of respiratory therapists reported experiencing some level of burnout. The demanding nature of the profession, long hours, and high stress contribute to this widespread issue.
However, this also means that job opportunities are plentiful, as the need to address burnout and provide better working conditions opens doors for respiratory therapists to find roles that offer a healthier work-life balance and improved job satisfaction.
10. The Rewarding Nature of Respiratory Therapy
Respiratory therapy is not only a career with high demand but also one that offers immense personal fulfillment. The opportunity to make a tangible difference in patients’ lives, such as helping someone breathe easier, is deeply rewarding.
As one respiratory therapist put it, “There is no better feeling than helping a patient breathe.”
This sense of purpose and impact is a driving force for many professionals in the field, making respiratory therapy a highly appealing career choice for those who want to contribute meaningfully to patient care and well-being.
What Does a Respiratory Therapist Do On the Job?
A respiratory therapist is a healthcare professional who specializes in treating patients with breathing or cardiopulmonary disorders.
Here are some key tasks and responsibilities they perform on the job:
- Assess and Diagnose Respiratory Conditions: Respiratory therapists evaluate patients with breathing difficulties and perform diagnostic tests, such as pulmonary function tests, to assess lung capacity and function.
- Develop Treatment Plans: They collaborate with physicians to create individualized treatment plans for patients based on their specific respiratory needs.
- Administer Therapy: Respiratory therapists provide treatments, such as oxygen therapy, aerosol medications, chest physiotherapy, and mechanical ventilation, to help patients breathe more easily.
- Monitor Patient Progress: They regularly monitor and record patients’ progress, making adjustments to treatment plans as needed to ensure optimal outcomes.
- Manage Life-Support Equipment: In critical care settings, respiratory therapists manage ventilators and other life-support systems, ensuring that patients receive the correct amount of oxygen at the appropriate rate.
- Educate Patients: Respiratory therapists teach patients and their families how to use respiratory equipment and medications properly, often in home care settings.
- Emergency Response: They are often involved in emergency care, including providing resuscitation and managing patients in critical condition who are unable to breathe on their own.
- Counsel and Support: Respiratory therapists may also provide counseling and support for patients dealing with chronic respiratory conditions, including smoking cessation and lifestyle adjustments.
Note: Overall, respiratory therapists play a vital role in helping patients with a wide range of respiratory issues, from managing chronic diseases to providing critical care in emergency situations.
FAQs About the Job Outlook for Respiratory Therapists
What is the Future Outlook for Respiratory Therapists?
The future outlook for respiratory therapists is highly positive. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in this field is projected to grow by 13% from 2022 to 2032, which is much faster than the average for all occupations.
This growth is driven by an aging population, an increase in chronic respiratory conditions, and a growing focus on preventive healthcare.
Why is Respiratory Therapy a Growing Field?
Respiratory therapy is a growing field due to several factors, including the increasing prevalence of respiratory diseases such as COPD, asthma, and the lingering effects of COVID-19.
Additionally, advancements in medical technology, a greater emphasis on patient care in outpatient settings, and rising awareness of respiratory health are all contributing to the expanding demand for respiratory therapists.
Is Respiratory Therapy Recession-Proof?
While no career is entirely recession-proof, respiratory therapy is considered to be a stable and resilient profession. Healthcare is a critical sector that remains essential even during economic downturns.
The ongoing need for respiratory care, particularly in managing chronic conditions and emergencies, helps insulate the profession from the impacts of economic recessions.
What Are the Disadvantages of Being a Respiratory Therapist?
Some disadvantages of being a respiratory therapist include the physically demanding nature of the job, which can involve standing for long periods and lifting or turning patients.
Additionally, respiratory therapists may experience high levels of stress due to the critical nature of their work, especially in emergency settings. Exposure to infectious diseases and burnout are also common challenges in this profession.
Is it Worth it to Become a Respiratory Therapist?
For those passionate about helping others and interested in a healthcare career, becoming a respiratory therapist can be highly rewarding. The profession offers strong job security, competitive pay, and the opportunity to make a significant impact on patients’ lives.
While the job can be challenging, many find the personal and professional fulfillment it provides well worth the effort.
Final Thoughts
With an aging population and a heightened focus on respiratory health, the need for skilled respiratory therapists is more critical than ever. The strong job outlook and demand for respiratory therapists underscore the essential role they play in patient care.
Whether helping patients recover from acute respiratory illnesses or managing chronic conditions, respiratory therapists are indispensable in modern healthcare.
For those seeking a rewarding career with growth potential, respiratory therapy offers a path filled with opportunity and impact.
Written by:
John Landry is a registered respiratory therapist from Memphis, TN, and has a bachelor's degree in kinesiology. He enjoys using evidence-based research to help others breathe easier and live a healthier life.
References
- Rickards T, Kitts E. The roles, they are a changing: Respiratory Therapists as part of the multidisciplinary, community, primary health care team. Can J Respir Ther. 2018.
- Joshi M, Goraya H, Joshi A, Bartter T. Climate change and respiratory diseases: a 2020 perspective. Curr Opin Pulm Med. 2020.
- Krishna R, Anjum F, Oliver TI. Bronchiolitis Obliterans. [Updated 2023 Aug 14]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2024.
- “Respiratory Therapists : Occupational Outlook Handbook: : U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.” U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 10 Apr. 2024.
- “Job Outlook Is Good for Respiratory Therapists.” AARC, 22 May 2023.