Will AI Replace Respiratory Therapists?
Respiratory therapists manage ventilators, airways, and breathing emergencies — urgent bedside work where seconds matter and every patient responds differently.
Why Respiratory Therapists Scored 13/100
What AI Will Change
- Ventilator setting recommendations
- Continuous monitoring and alarms
- Treatment documentation
What Stays Human
- Airway management and emergency response
- Adjusting care to a patient in distress
- Teaching patients to manage chronic lung disease
Pay & Job Outlook
| Median pay | $77,960/yr |
|---|---|
| Projected job growth (2023–33) | +13% |
| AI replacement risk | 13/100 (Very Low) |
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook (median pay May 2023; projections 2023–33). Risk score: Revokai editorial assessment.
How to Become a respiratory therapist
Complete an associate or bachelor's program in respiratory therapy and earn the RRT credential and state license.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will AI replace respiratory therapists?
No — very unlikely. Revokai rates respiratory therapists at 13/100 (very low risk). Respiratory therapists manage ventilators, airways, and breathing emergencies — urgent bedside work where seconds matter and every patient responds differently.
What parts of the job will AI change?
AI is most likely to take over or assist with: ventilator setting recommendations; continuous monitoring and alarms; treatment documentation. What stays human: airway management and emergency response; adjusting care to a patient in distress; teaching patients to manage chronic lung disease.
How much do respiratory therapists make?
The BLS reports a median pay of $77,960/yr, with projected employment change of +13% over 2023–33.
How do you become a respiratory therapist?
Complete an associate or bachelor's program in respiratory therapy and earn the RRT credential and state license.