Idaho Senate debates respiratory therapy interstate compact for better healthcare access

On March 6, 2025, the Senate Commerce and Human Resources Committee of Idaho convened to discuss a significant piece of legislation aimed at improving access to respiratory care through the establishment of an Interstate Compact for Respiratory Therapists (RCIC). This initiative is particularly timely given the increasing demand for respiratory care services in the state, driven by a rise in chronic lung diseases and a growing population.

Senator Bjerke, a key proponent of the bill, emphasized the compact's potential to enhance license portability for respiratory therapists, thereby facilitating multi-state practice. This would not only expand employment opportunities but also improve continuity of care for patients who may need to relocate or receive treatment across state lines. The compact aims to alleviate the burden of maintaining multiple licenses, particularly for practitioners in Idaho's numerous border towns, where hospitals often straddle state lines.

Dr. Megan Koster, a licensed respiratory therapist and delegate for the Idaho Society of Respiratory Care, further elaborated on the compact's benefits. She highlighted the critical role respiratory therapists play in various healthcare settings, from managing complex cases in hospitals to providing essential care for premature infants. With a workforce shortage in the field, the compact is seen as a vital step toward attracting and retaining qualified practitioners, especially in underserved rural areas.

The proposed legislation aligns with Idaho's existing participation in other interstate compacts for healthcare professionals, such as those for nursing and physicians. By streamlining the licensing process, the RCIC is expected to reduce administrative costs while ensuring high standards of care. Importantly, the compact preserves state sovereignty, allowing Idaho to maintain control over professional standards while benefiting from the flexibility it offers to practitioners.

As the committee deliberates on this legislation, the anticipated outcome could significantly enhance the availability of respiratory care services in Idaho, addressing both current workforce shortages and the growing healthcare needs of its residents. The next steps will involve further discussions and potential amendments to the bill as it moves through the legislative process.