CHEST Guidelines-Reintroducing-the-Advanced-Practice-Respiratory-Th

Reintroducing-the-Advanced-Practice-Respiratory-Th

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The document discusses the introduction and development of the Advanced Practice Respiratory Therapist (APRT) role, emphasizing its potential to address the shortage of healthcare providers in the U.S., particularly exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. As healthcare systems increasingly rely on advanced practice practitioners (APPs) like nurse practitioners and physician assistants, the APRT, focused on cardiopulmonary diseases, is presented as a promising addition to these efforts. The first APRT program at The Ohio State University, established in 2021, provides an enhanced educational pathway for registered respiratory therapists (RRTs), including a Master of Respiratory Therapy degree and extensive clinical training to effectively manage patients with complex cardiopulmonary issues.<br /><br />The series of articles in CHEST highlights the APRT's inclusion in healthcare teams, showing improved outcomes when APPs are integrated into collaborative care models. A particular focus is given to the development of a standardized assessment tool to evaluate the competencies of APRT graduates, ensuring they are adequately prepared to work in diverse practice environments.<br /><br />The APRT model not only aims to extend the career pathway for RRTs looking to remain in clinical practice but also supports a comprehensive, team-based healthcare delivery system under physician supervision. However, adoption faces challenges such as licensing, reimbursement, and the novelty of the role. Efforts are underway by the American Association for Respiratory Care to address these issues and to encourage the expansion of APRT programs.<br /><br />The document encourages physicians to support these programs and consider APRTs for positions within their practices, aiding in the development of a more robust healthcare workforce capable of addressing current and future challenges in respiratory care.

Keywords

Advanced Practice Respiratory Therapist

APRT role

healthcare provider shortage

COVID-19 pandemic

cardiopulmonary diseases

Ohio State University

Master of Respiratory Therapy

collaborative care models

standardized assessment tool

American Association for Respiratory Care