Respiratory Therapy Programs in Orlando, Florida

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Becoming a Respiratory Therapist in Orlando, Florida

Are you considering a career as a Respiratory Therapist (RT) in Orlando, Florida? This guide will walk you through the steps to become a Respiratory Therapist, including education paths, certification, and licensure requirements. Respiratory Therapists play a crucial role in healthcare, providing care for patients with breathing or cardiopulmonary disorders. Whether you’re interested in a two-year associate degree or a four-year bachelor’s program, Orlando offers several educational opportunities to start your journey in Respiratory Therapy.

About Orlando

Orlando, Florida, known for its world-famous theme parks and attractions, is a bustling city with a diverse population and a thriving healthcare sector. As the county seat of Orange County, Orlando is home to numerous neighborhoods such as Lake Nona, Winter Park, and Downtown Orlando. For more information about the city, visit the official Orlando website.

Respiratory Therapy Programs in Orlando, Florida

Orlando offers several accredited Respiratory Therapy programs to help you start your career:

1. Valencia College
   Located in the MetroWest neighborhood, Valencia College offers an Associate in Science degree in Respiratory Care. This program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care (CoARC) and prepares students for the Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) exam. For more information, visit the Valencia College Respiratory Care program page.

2. Seminole State College of Florida
   Situated in nearby Sanford, approximately 25 miles from Orlando, Seminole State College offers an Associate in Science degree in Respiratory Care. The program provides hands-on training and prepares students for the CRT and Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) exams. Learn more by visiting the Seminole State College Respiratory Care program page.

3. AdventHealth University
   Located in the Health Village neighborhood of Orlando, AdventHealth University offers a Bachelor of Science in Respiratory Therapy. This program is designed for those seeking advanced education and training in the field. For details, visit the AdventHealth University Respiratory Therapy program page.

Respiratory Therapist Employment Opportunities in Orlando

Orlando is home to several major healthcare facilities that employ Respiratory Therapists:

1. AdventHealth Orlando
   Located in the Health Village neighborhood, AdventHealth Orlando is a large hospital offering a wide range of services. It frequently hires Respiratory Therapists to join its team. Visit the AdventHealth Orlando careers page for current job openings.

2. Orlando Health
   Situated in the SoDo district, Orlando Health is a comprehensive healthcare system with multiple facilities. It provides numerous employment opportunities for Respiratory Therapists. Check out the Orlando Health careers page for more information.

3. Nemours Children’s Hospital
   Located in the Lake Nona Medical City, Nemours Children’s Hospital specializes in pediatric care and employs Respiratory Therapists to support its young patients. Explore the Nemours careers page for available positions.

Prerequisites for Respiratory Therapy Programs

To enroll in a Respiratory Therapy program in Orlando, you typically need to meet the following prerequisites:

• A high school diploma or GED
• Completion of prerequisite courses in subjects like biology, chemistry, and mathematics
• A minimum age requirement, usually 18 years or older
• Passing scores on entrance exams, if required by the program
• Background checks and proof of immunizations

Respiratory Therapist Licensure Requirements in Florida

To practice as a Respiratory Therapist in Florida, you must meet the following state-specific licensure requirements:

• Education: Complete a CoARC-accredited Respiratory Therapy degree program.
• Certification: Pass the National Board for Respiratory Care’s (NBRC) Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) exam.
• Licensing: Obtain a state license through the Florida Board of Respiratory Care. This involves submitting an application, paying a fee, and providing proof of CRT or RRT credentials.

For more details, visit the Florida Board of Respiratory Care website.

Licensure Reciprocity

Florida does not have specific reciprocity agreements with other states for Respiratory Therapist licensure. However, if you hold a valid license from another state, you may apply for a Florida license through endorsement, subject to meeting the state’s requirements.

Get Started Today

Embarking on a career as a Respiratory Therapist in Orlando, Florida, is a rewarding decision. With a variety of educational programs and employment opportunities available, now is the perfect time to pursue your passion for helping others breathe easier. Contact a school today to learn more about their Respiratory Therapy programs and take the first step toward your new career.

For more information on the job outlook for Respiratory Therapists, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics website.