At our March 2019 meeting, the CoARC reviewed comments regarding the continued accreditation of associate degree programs. The CoARC wants to re-emphasize our commitment to support existing accredited associate degree programs. We continue to recognize the prominent role played by associate degree respiratory care programs in addressing workforce needs. We also reaffirm our position that there is the need for increasing numbers of respiratory therapists with baccalaureate and graduate education to serve as educators, researchers, managers, clinical specialists, and in other roles throughout the healthcare delivery system. The CoARC continues to work with other stakeholders to develop alternative pathways, including degree advancement, to meet this goal.
