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The Florida Society for Respiratory Care (FSRC) will continue to be the leading professional association for Respiratory Care in Florida. The FSRC will encourage and promote professional excellence, advance the science and practice of Respiratory Care, and serves as an advocate for patients, their families, the public, the profession, and the Respiratory Therapist.

Position Statement of the Florida Society of Respiratory Care: Advocating for Advanced Licensure Standards in Respiratory Therapy

Introduction: The Florida Society of Respiratory Care (FSRC) is dedicated to advancing the practice of respiratory care and ensuring that respiratory therapists (RTs) in Florida are equipped to provide the highest standard of patient care. In alignment with our mission to enhance patient outcomes and support the professional development of respiratory therapists, FSRC advocates for a critical revision of the state licensure act. We propose that the Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) credential be established as the entry-level standard for initial licensure and recommend the introduction of distinct licensure tiers to recognize varying levels of expertise and education within the profession.

Support for RRT as Entry-Level Standard for Initial Licensure: Currently, the entry-level licensure for respiratory therapists in Florida is based on the Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) credential. While the CRT represents a foundational level of competency, the RRT credential signifies a higher degree of proficiency and a commitment to ongoing professional development. By adopting the RRT as the entry-level requirement for initial licensure, we aim to:

1. Elevate Standards of Care: The RRT credential encompasses advanced knowledge and clinical skills that are essential for delivering high-quality respiratory care. By requiring the RRT as the entry-level standard, we can ensure that all licensed respiratory therapists meet a consistent and elevated standard of care from the outset of their careers.
2. Enhance Professional Recognition: Establishing the RRT as the entry-level credential initial licensure will underscore the importance of advanced education and training in the field, thereby increasing the recognition and value of the respiratory therapy profession within the healthcare system.
3. Encourage Professional Development: Requiring the RRT for initial licensure will inspire respiratory therapists to pursue further education and certification, fostering a culture of continuous learning and professional growth. It also serves as a step toward advanced credentials, which provide greater professional opportunities.
4. Align with Current National Standards. For over a decade, the RRT has been the minimal educational standard for the profession and the outcomes standard for RT educational programs.  Establishing the RRT credential as the requirement for initial licensure in Florida will bring the Licensure Act into alignment with current academic standards.

Proposal for Tiered Licensure: To further align with the evolving landscape of respiratory care, FSRC advocates for updates to the existing tiered licensure system. These licensure tiers would include separate licensure for:

1. Bachelor’s Degree in Cardiopulmonary Science: This tier would recognize respiratory therapists who have completed a bachelor's degree in cardiopulmonary science. This advanced education equips therapists with a deeper understanding of cardiopulmonary physiology, research, and evidence-based practice, contributing to more comprehensive patient care and the ability to take on leadership roles within the field.
2. Advanced Practice Respiratory Therapist (APRT): The APRT tier would be designed for therapists who have pursued additional education, specialization, or advanced certifications beyond the RRT and BS Cardiopulmonary Science credential. APRTs would be recognized for their expertise in specialized areas of respiratory care and their ability to perform advanced procedures and manage complex patient cases.

Conclusion: FSRC believes that these proposed changes will significantly enhance the quality of respiratory care in Florida. By establishing the RRT as the entry-level credential and updating tiered licensure, we can better recognize and reward the advanced skills and knowledge of respiratory therapists, ultimately leading to improved patient outcomes and a stronger profession. We urge policymakers and stakeholders to consider these recommendations and work collaboratively to advance the standards of respiratory care in our state.

Contact: For further information or to discuss this position statement, please contact the Florida Society of Respiratory Care at [email protected] or 850-RRT-FSRC.