Respiratory Therapy Schools
Respiratory Therapy Programs in Plano, Texas
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Becoming a Respiratory Therapist in Plano, Texas
Are you considering a career as a Respiratory Therapist in Plano, Texas? This guide will walk you through the steps necessary to embark on this rewarding healthcare profession. A Respiratory Therapist (RT) is a specialized healthcare practitioner trained in pulmonary medicine to work therapeutically with people suffering from pulmonary disease. The path to becoming an RT involves completing a dedicated Respiratory Therapy program, obtaining certification, and securing licensure.
About Plano
Plano, Texas, is a thriving city located in the Dallas-Fort Worth metropolitan area. Known for its excellent quality of life, Plano offers a mix of urban amenities and suburban comfort. The city is home to several corporate headquarters, beautiful parks, and a strong community spirit. For more information, visit the official Plano city website.
Respiratory Therapy Programs in Plano, Texas
If you’re looking to pursue a career in Respiratory Therapy, Plano offers several educational opportunities:
- Collin College – Respiratory Care Program
- Located in McKinney, just a short drive from Plano, Collin College offers an Associate of Applied Science degree in Respiratory Care. The program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care (CoARC) and includes comprehensive coursework and clinical practice. For more details, visit the Collin College Respiratory Care Program page.
- Tarrant County College – Respiratory Care Program
- Situated in Fort Worth, Tarrant County College provides an Associate of Applied Science in Respiratory Care. The program focuses on preparing students for the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) exams and includes both classroom instruction and clinical rotations. Learn more on the Tarrant County College Respiratory Care Program page.
- El Centro College (Dallas College) – Respiratory Care Program
- Located in downtown Dallas, El Centro College offers an Associate of Applied Science in Respiratory Care. The program is designed to equip students with the skills needed to become competent respiratory therapists. For more information, visit the El Centro College Respiratory Care Program page.
Respiratory Therapist Employment Opportunities in Plano
Plano hosts several healthcare facilities that employ Respiratory Therapists:
- Baylor Scott & White Medical Center – Plano
- This facility is part of the Baylor Scott & White Health system and offers a range of medical services. It is located in the Legacy neighborhood. For employment opportunities, visit the Baylor Scott & White Health careers page.
- Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital Plano
- Situated in the Willow Bend area, this hospital is part of the Texas Health Resources network and provides comprehensive healthcare services. Check out their career opportunities.
- Children’s Medical Center Plano
- Located in the Legacy area, this hospital specializes in pediatric care and is part of the Children’s Health network. For job listings, visit the Children’s Health careers page.
Prerequisites for Respiratory Therapy Programs
To enroll in a Respiratory Therapy program, you typically need:
– A high school diploma or equivalent.
– Completion of prerequisite courses such as biology, chemistry, and mathematics.
– Attendance at information sessions and submission of official transcripts.
– Passing scores on entrance exams like the HESI or TEAS.
– A criminal background check and proof of health insurance.
Respiratory Therapist Licensure Requirements in Texas
In Texas, Respiratory Therapists must be licensed by the Texas Department of State Health Services. The requirements include:
– Graduation from a CoARC-accredited program.
– Passing the NBRC’s Therapist Multiple-Choice (TMC) Examination to earn the Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) credential.
– For advanced practice, obtaining the Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) credential by passing the Clinical Simulation Examination (CSE).
– Applying for state licensure through the Texas Department of State Health Services.
Licensure Reciprocity
Texas participates in licensure reciprocity with several states, allowing Respiratory Therapists licensed in other states to practice in Texas, provided they meet specific criteria. For detailed information, consult the Texas Department of State Health Services.
Get Started Today
Embarking on a career as a Respiratory Therapist in Plano, Texas, is a fulfilling journey that offers numerous opportunities to make a difference in patients’ lives. With the right education and credentials, you can join this essential healthcare field. Contact a local school today to begin your path toward becoming a Respiratory Therapist.
For more information on the job outlook for Respiratory Therapists, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics page.