Every minute, somewhere in Quebec, a respiratory therapist is helping a patient to breathe. In an emergency room, intensive care or neonatalogy, these professionals play an essential role: they ensure patients’ respiratory stability at the most critical moments.

Their expertise is both technical and humane. Mastering sophisticated equipment, adjusting a ventilator, calming a patient in respiratory distress: their work requires rigour, empathy and composure. Yet despite their vital contribution, respiratory therapists are forced to work in extremely difficult conditions.

In some institutions, more than 40% of the respiratory therapist positions are vacant. Teams are exhausted, forced to work multiple shifts to avoid service disruptions. The shortage creates a vicious cycle: conditions deteriorate, new recruits become discouraged, and pressure increases on those who remain.

This situation can’t continue. Respiratory therapists need full recognition of their role, higher salaries, and support for training and integrating new recruits. We need political courage to preserve this endangered profession.

On the occasion of Respiratory Therapists Week, the FIQ would like to say thank you. Thank you for your expertise, your calmness in emergencies, and your presence in the most critical moments. Thank you for making a difference, day after day, for patients in Québec.

They watch over our every breath. Now it is our turn to watch over them. Share this article and add your voice to theirs.