Employment Outlook

Much of the demand for respiratory therapists will be due to the aging population.  Older adults suffer more from breathing and lung diseases than young people do. As the number of elderly increase, the need for respiratory therapists will grow.  In addition, advances in treatment for different types of patients, such as premature infants, will also increase the demand for these workers. 

Hospitals will continue to be the main employers of respiratory therapists and currently, four out of five respiratory therapists work in hospitals in Minnesota.  Respiratory therapists also work in doctor's offices, nursing care facilities, medical equipment companies and the private sector.  Respiratory therapists with four-year degrees may advance to supervisory or manager jobs.  Some advance by moving into teaching positions.  

The demand for respiratory therapists continues to exceed the supply with faster than average job growth anticipated.  It is estimated the field will grow at 20.8% nationally and 26.5% in Minnesota by the year 2019.  Wages vary according to the responsibilities and experience of the therapist.  On average, respiratory therapists earn an annual salary of $29.48/hour ($61,318/yr) (data from 2011 www.ISEEK.org).