What are some similarities and differences between Respiratory Care Practitioners, also known
as Pulmonologists, and Respiratory Therapists? The two careers are very similar because they
both treat patients with breathing problems and pulmonary conditions. But there are some
differences between the two professions.
A Respiratory Care Practitioner and a Respiratory Technician treat and diagnose patients with
breathing issues. Both careers develop the same skills, including good bedside manner, clinical
skills, problem solving, empathy, and communication. In the responsibilities aspect, they both
run diagnostic tests and provide treatments, such as administering oxygen, prescribing
medication, and evaluating patients for surgery. They also train their patients and families to
properly use home ventilators. (Respiratory Care Practitioner Vs. Respiratory Therapist | Work -
Chron.Com, n.d.) The two professions operate ventilators and other assistive-breathing
machines. (Respiratory Care Practitioner vs. Respiratory Therapist: Key Differences |
Indeed.Com, n.d.)
Respiratory Care Practitioners and Respiratory Technicians work in the same environments. This
includes hospitals, outpatient clinics, nursing homes, educational institutions, rehabilitation
facilities, and sleep disorder centers. They work 40 hours a week. The hours vary depending on
the employer. Both careers need to have a license to practice in the state of practice.
There are more differences between the two professions. For example, they both treat patients
with breathing conditions, but a Respiratory Care Practitioner treats patients with more intense
cases, such as pneumonia, chest infections, and cancer. Respiratory Technician needs an
associate’s degree in respiratory therapy, and a Respiratory Care Practitioner needs to earn a
bachelor’s degree, four years of medical school, three years of residency, and after finishing
residency, they can apply for a pulmonology fellowship for two or three years. Respiratory
Technicians can also earn certifications to increase their hiring and earning potential. The
average salary for Respiratory Care Practitioners and Respiratory Technicians is very different. A
Respiratory Care Practitioner average salary of $310,000 per year and a Respiratory Technician
average salary of $61,810 per year. Pulmonologists earned the most working in the northwestern
states, where the average salary was $365,000. (Respiratory Care Practitioner Vs. Respiratory
Therapist | Work - Chron.Com, n.d.) The Respiratory Care is becoming an increasingly important
field in health care. Between 2019 and 2029, the Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates the
industry to grow by 19%, which is faster than the average for all occupations. (Respiratory Care
Practitioner vs. Respiratory Therapist: Key Differences | Indeed.Com, n.d.)
Reference
Respiratory Care Practitioner Vs. Respiratory Therapist | Work - Chron.com. (n.d.). Work -
Chron.Com
https://work.chron.com/respiratory-care-practitioner-vs-respiratory-therapist-26360.html
Respiratory Care Practitioner vs. Respiratory Therapist: Key Differences | Indeed.com. (n.d.).
https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/respiratory-care-practitioner-vs-respiratory-
therapist/
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