Self-Regulation for Saskatchewan

On April 1, 2009 the profession of Respiratory Therapy will become self-regulated in the province of Saskatchewan.

“Becoming self-regulated represents a significant step forward in the evolution of our profession”, stated Mark Herzog, President, Saskatchewan College of Respiratory Therapists.“Our journey toward self-regulation commenced long ago and involved the contribution of many therapists over the years.”

Along the road to self-regulation respiratory therapists had to deal with changes in government, changes in government liaison personnel, and numerous revisions to bylaw wording.Regardless of these many challenges, dedicated therapists worked closely with skilled personnel within the government’s Ministry of Health to make this new professional College for respiratory therapists a reality.

Self-regulation is designed to protect the public.A self-regulated organization sets rules for ethics, conflicts, disciplinary action and registration of its members.Continuing education requirements are also mandated by the Saskatchewan College of Respiratory Therapists.

Approximately 120 respiratory therapists practice in the province of Saskatchewan.The scope of practice includes adult and pediatric critical care, neonatal care, transport teams, home care, pulmonary function testing, sleep laboratory, pulmonary rehabilitation, and patient education.