Can an individual practice respiratory care in Texas if they hold current CRT credentials from the NBRC but have not graduated from a respiratory care program?

In Texas, practicing respiratory care requires individuals to meet specific educational and credentialing standards as established by the Texas Medical Board and the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC). While holding current Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) credentials indicates a certain level of knowledge and competency in respiratory care, it is not sufficient to practice without having completed an accredited respiratory care program.

Graduating from an accredited program is a prerequisite for obtaining a license to practice as a Respiratory Care Practitioner (RCP) in Texas. This requirement is intended to ensure that all practitioners have the necessary formal education and training to provide safe and effective patient care. Therefore, without the requisite educational background, an individual cannot legally practice respiratory care, regardless of their certification status.