The employment outlook for respiratory therapists is very good and expected to increase over the next eight years.  A deficit exists between the number of skilled workers entering the workforce and the number of jobs available because of the increasing demand on the medical industry overall.  An increase in aging Americans who suffer from respiratory ailments will drive demand.  Additionally, technological breakthroughs have allowed premature babies, whose lives rely on ventilators, to become viable at younger ages.

Wages for respiratory therapists are excellent.  U.S. Department of Labor statistics from 2002 state the median annual pay rate at $40,220, with $20,920 per year being the low end and $54,030 being the high end. 

Advancement as a respiratory therapist can take many forms.  Respiratory therapists can advance by moving from general care to specific fields.  Supervisory positions are also available, especially for those therapists who possess a four year degree.  Management positions are also available for respiratory therapists in home health care and equipment rental businesses.