Are you a paramedic thinking about transitioning into a career as a respiratory therapist? Is it even possible to make the switch?
The short answer:
Yes, it’s absolutely possible for paramedics to become respiratory therapists. In fact, many respiratory therapists began their careers in the field of emergency medicine. However, there aren’t currently any bridge programs or direct educational pathways designed specifically for paramedics to transition into respiratory therapy.
This means you’ll need to take the traditional route, which involves applying to and completing an accredited respiratory therapy program. While this may seem like a challenge, many paramedics have successfully made the transition, and you can too.
What is a Respiratory Therapist?
A respiratory therapist is a healthcare professional who specializes in diagnosing and treating conditions that affect the cardiopulmonary system—specifically the heart and lungs. They care for patients with respiratory disorders such as asthma, COPD, pneumonia, and more.
Respiratory therapists collaborate closely with physicians and other members of the healthcare team to provide top-notch patient care. While most commonly found in hospital settings, they can also work in outpatient clinics, long-term care facilities, home healthcare, and even industrial or research environments.
Their responsibilities vary depending on their specific role and workplace but often include treating patients with lung diseases, administering aerosol medications, delivering oxygen therapy, and managing patients on mechanical ventilators.
What is a Paramedic?
A paramedic is an advanced emergency medical technician (EMT) who has undergone specialized training to provide higher levels of life support. As first responders to medical emergencies, paramedics offer critical care on-site before transporting patients to the hospital.
They are trained to administer medications, start IVs, and perform advanced medical interventions that basic EMTs cannot. Paramedics possess a broader understanding of medical conditions and emergency treatment strategies.
Their duties typically include responding to 911 calls, providing emergency care at the scene, and safely transporting patients to medical facilities. In some cases, paramedics may perform certain tasks similar to those of respiratory therapists, such as managing airway emergencies and providing life-sustaining treatments.
What’s the Difference Between a Respiratory Therapist and a Paramedic?
While both respiratory therapists (RTs) and paramedics care for patients with cardiopulmonary conditions, their roles and work environments are quite different.
- Respiratory Therapists: They primarily work in hospitals and specialize in treating patients with chronic lung diseases, such as asthma, COPD, and pneumonia. They also focus on preventative care, educating patients on how to manage or prevent respiratory issues. Their expertise lies in managing and treating long-term respiratory conditions and using advanced medical equipment like ventilators.
- Paramedics: They work in pre-hospital settings, responding to emergencies. They provide critical, on-the-spot care for patients experiencing acute medical conditions such as heart attacks, trauma, or respiratory distress. Paramedics are trained to stabilize patients and offer life-saving care before they reach the hospital.
Summary: Respiratory therapists have specialized knowledge of the respiratory system and lung diseases, while paramedics are experts in emergency medical procedures and quick decision-making during crises. Both roles are essential, but their focus and training are tailored to different aspects of patient care.
Is it Possible to Become a Respiratory Therapist if You’re Currently a Paramedic?
Yes, it is absolutely possible for a paramedic to become a respiratory therapist. However, as mentioned earlier, there are no shortcuts to this transition. You will need to follow the same path as other students, which includes applying to and being accepted into an accredited respiratory therapy program.
Once enrolled, you’ll need to complete all required courses and clinical rotations. After successfully finishing the program, you must pass the national board exam to earn your credentials. With your professional credentials in hand, you can then apply for licensure and begin working as a respiratory therapist.
Advantages of Going to Respiratory Therapy School as a Paramedic
While there are no shortcuts, paramedics have some distinct advantages when entering respiratory therapy school:
- Solid Medical Foundation: As a paramedic, you already have a strong understanding of anatomy and physiology, which will give you an edge in respiratory therapy courses. This foundational knowledge can make the learning curve smoother.
- Experience in Patient Care: Your hands-on experience in treating patients and handling emergency situations will be invaluable. You’re already comfortable in high-pressure scenarios, which is a crucial skill in respiratory therapy, especially in critical care settings.
- Familiarity with Medical Procedures and Equipment: Many of the skills and tools you’ve used as a paramedic overlap with respiratory therapy. Some examples include performing CPR, administering breathing treatments, performing intubation, conducting patient assessments, checking vital signs, and administering oxygen therapy.
Note: These shared skills will provide a strong foundation and give you a noticeable advantage as you progress through respiratory therapy school.
Is Respiratory Therapy School Worth It?
The decision to pursue respiratory therapy school is a personal one, but it can be highly rewarding for those passionate about helping others breathe easier. If you’re driven to make a positive impact on patients’ lives and enjoy working in healthcare, respiratory therapy may be the perfect career path for you.
Beyond personal fulfillment, respiratory therapists tend to earn a higher salary on average than paramedics, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). While salary isn’t the only factor to consider, it’s worth noting as you evaluate your options.
Additionally, the demand for respiratory therapists is projected to grow in the coming years due to an aging population and the increasing prevalence of chronic lung diseases. This means job security and opportunities will likely continue to expand in the field.
Final Thoughts
Advancing your career by becoming a respiratory therapist is an excellent choice if you’re currently working as a paramedic. While there are no shortcuts to this transition, your experience and knowledge in the healthcare field give you a significant advantage over other students.
Your background will not only boost your chances of being accepted into a respiratory therapy program, but it will also help you excel throughout your coursework and clinical training.
Once you’ve passed the national board exam and earned your credentials, you’ll be well-positioned to stand out when seeking job opportunities and embarking on your new career as a respiratory therapist.
Interested in learning more? Explore our comprehensive guide on the steps to becoming a respiratory therapist, along with our detailed list of accredited respiratory therapy programs across the United States.
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
- “Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics.” U.S. BUREAU OF LABOR STATISTICS, 31 Mar. 2022.
- Eaton, Georgette, et al. “Understanding the Role of the Paramedic in Primary Care: A Realist Review.” National Library of Medicine, 25 June 2021.
- Rickards, Tracey, and Emily Kitts. “The Roles, They Are a Changing: Respiratory Therapists as Part of the Multidisciplinary, Community, Primary Health Care Team.” National Library of Medicine, 2018.