Top 25 Respiratory Therapists Across the US
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What is a Respiratory Therapist?
Learn about this specialty, training requirements, and when to schedule a visit.
A respiratory therapist (RT) is a licensed healthcare professional who evaluates, treats, and manages patients with breathing disorders and cardiopulmonary conditions. Respiratory therapists administer oxygen therapy, manage ventilators, perform pulmonary function tests, deliver aerosol medications, and provide pulmonary rehabilitation. They work in hospitals, ICUs, outpatient clinics, sleep labs, and home health settings.
Training and Qualifications
Becoming a respiratory therapist requires extensive education and training:
- Associate's or Bachelor's degree in respiratory therapy from a CoARC-accredited program
- Clinical rotations covering ICU, emergency, neonatal, and outpatient respiratory care
- Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) credential via the NBRC TMC exam
- Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) credential via NBRC clinical simulation exam
- State licensure required in most states to practice independently
Board Certification: The National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) awards the Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) and Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) credentials. Specialty credentials include Adult Critical Care Specialist (ACCS), Neonatal/Pediatric Specialist (NPS), and Sleep Disorders Specialist (SDS). State licensure is required in 49 of 50 states.
When Should You See a Respiratory Therapist?
You should consider seeing a respiratory therapist if:
- You have been diagnosed with COPD, emphysema, or chronic bronchitis and need breathing treatments
- Your asthma is not well controlled with current medications
- You need pulmonary function testing to evaluate lung capacity
- You require oxygen therapy setup and management at home
- You are recovering from lung surgery or a respiratory illness and need pulmonary rehab
- You have been diagnosed with sleep apnea and need CPAP setup and education
Key Facts
Common Conditions Treated
Respiratory Therapists are trained to diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions. Here are some of the most common conditions that respiratory therapists help patients manage.
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
A group of progressive lung diseases including emphysema and chronic bronchitis that cause airflow obstruction and breathing difficulty.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
Respiratory therapists teach inhaler and nebulizer techniques, design pulmonary rehabilitation exercise programs, administer bronchodilator treatments, monitor oxygen saturation, and educate patients on COPD action plans to manage exacerbations.
Asthma
A chronic inflammatory airway disease causing reversible bronchoconstriction, wheezing, and shortness of breath triggered by allergens, exercise, or irritants.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
Respiratory therapists perform spirometry to assess airflow limitation, teach proper inhaler and spacer technique, develop asthma action plans, identify triggers, and provide ongoing education to improve disease control and reduce emergency visits.
Sleep Apnea
A sleep disorder in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep, most commonly obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) caused by upper airway collapse.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
Respiratory therapists with sleep disorders credentials conduct polysomnography, fit and titrate CPAP and BiPAP devices, troubleshoot mask fit issues, and provide patient education to improve compliance with therapy.
Important Note
This list represents common conditions but is not exhaustive. Respiratory Therapists treat many other conditions related to their specialty. If you're experiencing symptoms or have concerns, consult with a qualified respiratory therapist for a proper evaluation.
What to Expect During Your Visit
Understanding what happens during your appointment can help you feel more prepared. Here's what you can typically expect when visiting a respiratory therapist.
Your First Visit
- Bring a list of current medications, inhalers, and any home oxygen equipment
- Be prepared to describe your breathing symptoms, triggers, and daily limitations
- You may undergo a pulmonary function test (spirometry) to measure lung capacity
Diagnosis & Testing
- Respiratory therapists do not independently diagnose but perform diagnostic tests ordered by physicians
- They conduct spirometry, peak flow measurements, and arterial blood gas analysis
- Results are interpreted in collaboration with a pulmonologist or referring physician
Treatment Options
- Bronchodilator and aerosol medication delivery via nebulizer or inhaler
- Oxygen therapy setup, titration, and patient education
- Pulmonary rehabilitation including breathing exercises and endurance training
- CPAP/BiPAP fitting and ongoing compliance support for sleep apnea
Tip for Your Visit
Bring a list of current medications, previous test results, and questions you want to ask. Writing down your symptoms—when they occur and what affects them—helps your respiratory therapist provide accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.
How to Choose the Right Respiratory Therapist
Finding the right healthcare provider is important for your health and peace of mind. Here are key factors to consider when selecting a respiratory therapist.
Credentials to Verify
- Verify active RRT (Registered Respiratory Therapist) credential from the NBRC
- Look for specialty credentials such as ACCS, NPS, or SDS for specific conditions
- Confirm current state respiratory therapy license
Important Considerations
- Experience with your specific condition (COPD, asthma, ventilator weaning, sleep apnea)
- Whether the practice offers pulmonary rehab programs and home care services
- Availability for ongoing follow-up and equipment education
- Proximity and whether home visits are available for oxygen and ventilator patients
Quick Tip
Don't hesitate to schedule consultations with multiple respiratory therapists before making your decision. The right fit isn't just about credentials—it's also about feeling comfortable and confident in your care.
Cost and Insurance Information
Understanding the costs associated with seeing a respiratory therapist can help you plan for your healthcare needs.
Average Costs (Without Insurance)
Initial Visit
$100-200 for an initial respiratory assessment
Follow-up Visit
$50-150 for follow-up treatments or pulmonary function tests
Common Procedures
Note: These are estimated average costs and can vary based on location, provider, and specific services required.
Insurance Coverage
- Most respiratory therapy services are covered when ordered by a physician
- Pulmonary rehabilitation is typically covered for qualifying COPD and lung disease patients
- CPAP equipment and supplies are covered by most plans with a diagnosis of sleep apnea
Medicare Information
Medicare Part B covers pulmonary rehabilitation for COPD (up to 36 sessions, extendable to 72), medically necessary respiratory therapy services, and durable medical equipment including CPAP machines and oxygen concentrators.
Money-Saving Tips
- 1Always verify your respiratory therapist is in-network before scheduling
- 2Ask about self-pay discounts if you don't have insurance
- 3Inquire about payment plans for expensive procedures
- 4Get prior authorization when required to avoid claim denials
- 5Use FSA or HSA funds for eligible medical expenses
Sources & References
Information about respiratory therapists is sourced from peer-reviewed medical literature and authoritative organizations.
Last updated: March 2026
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about respiratory therapists
What is the difference between a respiratory therapist and a pulmonologist?
A pulmonologist is a physician (MD/DO) who diagnoses and manages lung diseases. A respiratory therapist is a licensed allied health professional who performs the hands-on treatments, tests, and patient education ordered by the pulmonologist or other physicians. They work as a team to manage respiratory conditions.
Can a respiratory therapist prescribe medications?
Respiratory therapists do not independently prescribe medications. They administer medications such as bronchodilators and inhaled corticosteroids under physician orders and can recommend therapy adjustments based on patient response.
Do I need a referral to see a respiratory therapist?
In most cases, yes. Respiratory therapy services are typically provided under a physician's order. Your primary care doctor or pulmonologist will refer you for services like pulmonary rehabilitation, breathing treatments, or sleep studies.
What does pulmonary rehabilitation involve?
Pulmonary rehab is a structured program that combines supervised exercise training, breathing techniques, energy conservation strategies, nutritional counseling, and disease education. Programs typically run 6-12 weeks with 2-3 sessions per week.
Medical disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider with questions about a medical condition. If you have a medical emergency, call 911. Our editorial standards