Pulmonary Rehabilitation Specialist Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the healthcare industry, the demand for pulmonary rehabilitation specialists is on a steady rise.

As the population ages, and respiratory diseases become more prevalent, the need for experienced professionals who can assist, manage, and enhance the respiratory health of patients grows more urgent.

But what exactly is expected of a pulmonary rehabilitation specialist?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
• A hiring manager looking to draft the perfect job specification,
• Or simply curious about the work of a pulmonary rehabilitation specialist,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable pulmonary rehabilitation specialist job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Pulmonary Rehabilitation Specialist Duties and Responsibilities

Pulmonary Rehabilitation Specialists work with patients who have lung diseases such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, pulmonary fibrosis, and cystic fibrosis.

They help these patients improve their physical condition, manage their symptoms, and improve their quality of life.

Their main duties and responsibilities include:

• Conducting initial patient assessments to understand their respiratory condition, physical abilities, and needs
• Developing individualized pulmonary rehabilitation programs based on patient’s health condition and goals
• Administering therapies and exercises to improve patients’ lung function and overall physical strength
• Teaching patients how to manage their symptoms, use their medications, and adopt healthier lifestyles
• Monitoring patients’ progress, adjusting their treatment plans as necessary, and reporting on their outcomes
• Providing emotional support and counseling to patients and their families
• Collaborating with other healthcare professionals, such as physicians, nurses, and physiotherapists, to coordinate patient care
• Staying updated on the latest research and developments in pulmonary rehabilitation
• Conducting patient education sessions on lung health and disease management

 

Pulmonary Rehabilitation Specialist Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated Pulmonary Rehabilitation Specialist to join our team.

The specialist will be responsible for providing specialized care and treatments for patients with chronic respiratory diseases.

The Pulmonary Rehabilitation Specialist responsibilities include developing individualized treatment plans, administering respiratory therapies, educating patients about their conditions, and monitoring patient progress.

The ideal candidate will have extensive knowledge of respiratory therapies and treatments, with excellent patient care skills.

The primary goal of the Pulmonary Rehabilitation Specialist is to improve the quality of life for patients with chronic respiratory conditions.

 

Responsibilities

• Assess patient’s health condition and develop individualized treatment plans
• Administer appropriate respiratory therapies and treatments
• Educate patients about their condition and treatment plan
• Monitor patient’s progress and make adjustments to treatment as necessary
• Collaborate with a multidisciplinary team to provide comprehensive care
• Maintain accurate patient records
• Comply with all healthcare regulations and standards

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a Pulmonary Rehabilitation Specialist or similar role
• Knowledge of respiratory therapies and treatments
• Ability to develop individualized treatment plans
• Excellent patient care skills
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Current CPR certification
• A bachelor’s degree in Respiratory Therapy or related field
• Certification as a Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT)

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Continuing education credits

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Pulmonary Rehabilitation Specialist
• Work Environment: This position is typically based in a hospital or clinic setting. Some local travel may be required for home visits.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Director of Respiratory Therapy.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $65,000 minimum to $90,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Pulmonary Rehabilitation Specialist Do?

Pulmonary Rehabilitation Specialists primarily work in healthcare facilities such as hospitals, clinics, or specialized rehabilitation centers.

They can also provide home-based care for patients who are unable to travel.

They work closely with a team of healthcare professionals, including doctors, nurses, and respiratory therapists, to deliver comprehensive care to patients with lung diseases.

The main responsibility of a Pulmonary Rehabilitation Specialist is to develop and implement individualized treatment plans to help patients manage their symptoms, improve their physical function, and enhance their overall quality of life.

They provide a range of therapeutic interventions, including exercise training, education on lung disease, energy-conserving techniques, breathing strategies, psychological counseling, and nutritional advice.

Pulmonary Rehabilitation Specialists also perform evaluations to monitor patients’ progress, adjust their treatment plans as necessary, and provide ongoing support to help patients cope with their condition.

Furthermore, they may conduct research to improve current rehabilitation strategies, educate other healthcare professionals about the benefits of pulmonary rehabilitation, and advocate for the needs of patients with lung diseases.

 

Pulmonary Rehabilitation Specialist Qualifications and Skills

A Pulmonary Rehabilitation Specialist utilizes a range of skills and qualifications to provide treatment and care to patients with lung conditions, such as:

• Thorough knowledge of pulmonary diseases, treatments, and therapies to provide effective rehabilitation services to patients.
• Strong interpersonal skills to establish rapport with patients and their families, fostering trust and confidence in the rehabilitation process.
• Exceptional communication skills to effectively explain complex medical information to patients, families, and other healthcare professionals.
• Ability to collaborate with a multi-disciplinary team, including doctors, respiratory therapists, and nutritionists, to develop and implement individualized patient care plans.
• Proficiency in using medical equipment and technologies related to pulmonary care and rehabilitation.
• Physical stamina and dexterity to assist patients in physical exercises and activities as part of their rehabilitation.
• Critical thinking and problem-solving skills to assess patients’ conditions and adjust treatment plans as needed.
• Empathy and patience to support patients who may be dealing with frustration, fear, or other emotions related to their illness.

 

Pulmonary Rehabilitation Specialist Experience Requirements

Entry-level Pulmonary Rehabilitation Specialists typically require a Bachelor’s Degree in Physical Therapy, Respiratory Therapy, or a related field.

They may have gained some experience through internships or part-time roles in a clinical setting.

These professionals may also gain experience in roles such as respiratory care therapist, physical therapist, or other allied health roles.

A minimum of 1 to 2 years of clinical experience, often in pulmonary rehabilitation, is usually required for entry-level roles.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience have typically honed their skills in patient assessment, treatment planning, and disease education.

They may also have developed expertise in leading and coordinating pulmonary rehabilitation programs.

Those with more than 5 years of experience may have advanced their knowledge in complex pulmonary conditions and treatment methods.

They may have some leadership experience and are usually ready to handle supervisory roles, oversee the operations of a pulmonary rehabilitation unit, or engage in the training and mentoring of junior staff.

For higher roles, certification from the American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation (AACVPR) could be necessary, demonstrating specialized proficiency in the field of pulmonary rehabilitation.

 

Pulmonary Rehabilitation Specialist Education and Training Requirements

Pulmonary Rehabilitation Specialists typically have a bachelor’s degree in respiratory therapy, physical therapy, or a related field.

After earning their bachelor’s degree, they often continue their education and training to specialize in pulmonary rehabilitation.

This can involve obtaining a master’s degree in respiratory therapy or a related field, with a focus on pulmonary care.

In addition to formal education, candidates should become a Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) through the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC).

After gaining some experience, they may also choose to become a Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT).

Pulmonary Rehabilitation Specialists should also be licensed in the state where they practice.

The licensing requirements can vary from state to state, but typically require a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in a related field and passing a licensing examination.

Many specialists also choose to further their education and credentials by obtaining a certification in pulmonary function technology or as a pulmonary rehabilitation professional.

Continuing education is essential in this field to stay updated with the latest research and advancements in pulmonary care.

This can be accomplished through seminars, workshops, and professional development courses.

Becoming a Pulmonary Rehabilitation Specialist requires a dedication to lifelong learning, as the field continually evolves with new research and technologies.

 

Pulmonary Rehabilitation Specialist Salary Expectations

A Pulmonary Rehabilitation Specialist earns an average salary of $80,640 (USD) per year.

However, the actual earnings can differ based on factors like years of experience in the field, qualifications, and the geographical location of the job.

The type of healthcare institution can also influence the salary package.

 

Pulmonary Rehabilitation Specialist Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Pulmonary Rehabilitation Specialist need?

A Pulmonary Rehabilitation Specialist should have a thorough knowledge of cardiopulmonary disorders, therapeutic procedures, patient assessment techniques, and respiratory care.

They need to have excellent communication skills to explain complex medical procedures to patients and their families.

They should be good listeners to understand patient concerns and empathetic to provide support during difficult times.

 

What qualifications does a Pulmonary Rehabilitation Specialist need?

A bachelor’s degree in respiratory care, physical therapy, or a related field is usually required.

Some positions may require a master’s degree or higher.

They need to be licensed to practice in their state and may need additional certification such as the Certified Pulmonary Function Technologist (CPFT) or Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) credentials.

 

What should you look for in a Pulmonary Rehabilitation Specialist resume?

A qualified Pulmonary Rehabilitation Specialist resume should have evidence of their educational qualifications and any relevant certifications.

Look for experience in pulmonary rehabilitation settings, demonstrating hands-on experience with patients suffering from respiratory disorders.

Knowledge of respiratory equipment and a solid understanding of pulmonary diseases and their treatments are crucial.

 

What qualities make a good Pulmonary Rehabilitation Specialist?

A good Pulmonary Rehabilitation Specialist is patient, compassionate, and has strong interpersonal skills to build trusting relationships with patients.

They need to be analytical and detail-oriented to accurately assess a patient’s condition and develop effective treatment plans.

They should also be committed to staying updated on the latest advancements in their field.

 

How can a Pulmonary Rehabilitation Specialist continue their professional development?

A Pulmonary Rehabilitation Specialist can participate in continuing education courses, workshops, and seminars related to respiratory care and rehabilitation.

They can also join professional organizations like the American Association for Respiratory Care or the American Thoracic Society to network with peers and stay updated on the latest research and advancements in the field.

Some specialists choose to pursue further education or certification in related areas like geriatric care, pediatric respiratory care, or health administration.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve demystified the vital role of a Pulmonary Rehabilitation Specialist.

Surprise, surprise!

It’s not just about providing respiratory care.

It’s about breathing life into health and wellbeing, one patient at a time.

With our trusty Pulmonary Rehabilitation Specialist job description template and real-world examples, you’re primed to make your next career move.

But why stop there?

Go further with our job description generator. It’s your stepping stone to meticulously crafted job listings or polishing your resume to a shine.

Remember:

Every breath you help a patient take is a part of their journey to better health.

Let’s enhance that journey. Together.

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