Bravo Joe
I just had to drop you a line after reading your article [“A Call for Change” by Joseph Lewarski, RT, May 2002]. I could not agree more. I am constantly frustrated not only by the view most of our industry has regarding respiratory therapists (RTs) as a cost factor rather than of value, but also by the RTs themselves who work in this industry who seem to care little for their profession.

Although I’m still new to this side of management, I look forward to assisting in any way I can.
                Kris Patrick, RRT
                Director of Clinical
                Respiratory-SouthEast
                VitalAire HealthCare
                Starke, Fla

The Right Thing To Do
Thanks for your article [“A Call for Change” by Joseph Lewarski, RT] in the May issue. As a manager, I am constantly asked why I need expensive respiratory therapists to do the job that a delivery tech can do. My answer has always been that we do it because it is the appropriate thing to do, because RTs are uniquely qualified to render the care needed, and because that is what the patient ultimately needs. You are correct in your assertion that this should not just be a marketing gimmick, which it so often is.

I hope you are successful in your efforts to begin a dialogue in the industry on criteria for respiratory home care. I left the hospital environment after 20 years to go into home care because I truly believe that there is a great opportunity for a therapist to make a difference. That is the philosophy that I try to instill in the therapists working with me. It is time that the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and others recognize this potential as well and provide reimbursement for it.

I will be following this closely and am willing to do my part in my area when needed.
            Michael Pierce, RRT
            Respiratory Manager
            Riverside Home Care
            Newport News, Va