From the return to in-person Congress and Summer Forum events to the passing of legislative bills, 2022 brought many great achievements.
One of the biggest accomplishments within the organization was the development of a new strategic plan, offering four pathways to set our course for the new era of AARC.
Pathway 1 – Engage
It is through this path that we will build and strengthen a diverse and inclusive professional community. Highlights from 2022 for this path include developing our strategic plan, kicking off a new career center, and bringing 15 industry leaders as Corporate Partners.
Pathway 2 – Elevate
Our Elevate path aims to advance the recognition and role of respiratory therapists. Highlights from 2022 for this path include celebrating our 75th anniversary, kicking off the Respiratory Care Collaborative, working with 5W PR to increase RT recognition, and publishing podcasts and videos to bring more awareness and education about the profession. We also honored dozens of members with our most prestigious awards.
Pathway 3 – Advocate
We will champion policies and initiatives that enhance respiratory care through the goals set fort in our Advocate path. Highlights from 2022 for this path include the passing of the Allied Healthcare Diversity Act, expanded dialogue on Compact Licensure, our support of the Safety from Violence for Healthcare Employees Act, and our work to reform access to supplemental oxygen.
Pathway 4 – Educate
Through our Educate path, we will deliver premier, evidence-based learning opportunities and promote the art and science of respiratory care. Highlights from 2022 for this path include the return to our in-person Congress and Summer Forum events, the publishing of the Respiratory Care Education Annual, our work in updating CPGs, publishing the COVID-19: Lessons Learned course and guidebook, and RESPIRATORY CARE going all-digital.
AARC Organization
And finally, AARC has had several organizational milestones this past year, to include inducting Carl Hinkson as AARC President 2023-2024 and naming Dan Garrett as the new AARC executive director. We also successful elected 2023 AARC Board Officers and Section Chairs and solidified AARC’s staff leadership team.
2022 brought several exciting milestones and we look forward to what 2023 will bring.
Email newsroom@aarc.org with questions or comments, we’d love to hear from you.
Heather Willden is the Director of Governance and Strategic Initiatives for the AARC where she works with state affiliates as the HOD liaison. She also manages DEI efforts and strategic initiatives. Connect with her about these topics by email, AARConnect or LinkedIn. When she's not working, you can find her podcasting with her husband, exploring new hiking trails, photographing, and spending time with her family.
