Respiratory Therapy Programs in Durham, North Carolina

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Becoming a Respiratory Therapist in Durham, North Carolina

Are you considering a rewarding career as a Respiratory Therapist in Durham, North Carolina? This guide will help you navigate the path to becoming a Respiratory Therapist (RT), including the education requirements, local RT programs, and licensure details. Respiratory Therapists play a crucial role in healthcare, specializing in the care of patients with breathing or cardiopulmonary disorders. There are various educational paths to becoming an RT, including associate and bachelor’s degree programs.

About Durham

Durham, North Carolina, is a city known for its rich history, thriving arts scene, and prestigious educational institutions. Home to Duke University, Durham is a hub for research and innovation. The city offers a blend of cultural attractions, including the Durham Performing Arts Center and the historic American Tobacco Campus. For more information about Durham, visit the official city website.

Respiratory Therapy Programs in Durham, North Carolina

If you’re looking to pursue a career in Respiratory Therapy, Durham offers several educational opportunities:

1. Durham Technical Community College
   Located in the heart of Durham, Durham Technical Community College offers an accredited Associate of Applied Science degree in Respiratory Therapy. The program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care (CoARC) and includes comprehensive coursework and clinical experience. For more information, visit the Durham Tech Respiratory Therapy program page.

2. Wake Technical Community College
   Situated approximately 30 miles from Durham, Wake Technical Community College provides a CoARC-accredited Respiratory Therapy program. The program focuses on developing skills in therapeutic procedures and patient assessment. Learn more on the Wake Tech Respiratory Therapy program page.

3. Guilford Technical Community College
   Located about 50 miles from Durham, Guilford Technical Community College offers a robust Respiratory Therapy program. This program emphasizes hands-on clinical training and prepares students for the NBRC certification exams. Visit the Guilford Tech Respiratory Therapy program page for details.

Respiratory Therapist Employment Opportunities in Durham

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

1. Duke University Hospital
   Located in the Duke University West Campus area, Duke University Hospital is a leading healthcare provider offering a range of specialized services. It provides numerous employment opportunities for Respiratory Therapists. Explore opportunities on the Duke Health Careers page.

2. Durham VA Health Care System
   Situated near downtown Durham, the Durham VA Health Care System is dedicated to providing comprehensive care to veterans. The facility offers positions for Respiratory Therapists within its healthcare team. Visit the VA Careers page for more information.

3. UNC Health Care
   Although located in nearby Chapel Hill, UNC Health Care is a significant employer for Respiratory Therapists in the region. The facility is known for its cutting-edge research and patient care. Check out the UNC Health Careers page for job listings.

Prerequisites for Respiratory Therapy Programs

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

• Educational Requirements: High school diploma or GED.
• Minimum Age: Generally, 18 years or older.
• Entrance Exams: Some programs may require entrance exams such as the TEAS.
• Background Checks: A criminal background check and drug screening may be required.
• Medical Status: Proof of immunizations and a physical exam.

Respiratory Therapist Licensure Requirements in North Carolina

In North Carolina, Respiratory Therapists must obtain licensure through the North Carolina Respiratory Care Board. The requirements include:

• Completion of a CoARC-accredited program.
• Passing the NBRC certification exams.
• Submission of an official transcript, BLS/CPR certification, and NBRC credential verification.
• Payment of a $175 application fee.
• Completion of a background check and notarized affidavit.

For detailed information, visit the North Carolina Respiratory Care Board website.

Licensure Reciprocity

North Carolina offers licensure reciprocity for Respiratory Therapists licensed in other states, provided they meet the state’s requirements. This can facilitate the transition for RTs moving to North Carolina.

Get Started Today

Embarking on a career as a Respiratory Therapist in Durham, North Carolina, is a fulfilling choice with numerous opportunities for growth and impact. Take the first step by exploring local RT programs and reaching out to schools for more information. Your journey to becoming a Respiratory Therapist starts now!

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