Press Release
June 14, 2010

Due to rampant respiratory problem in RP
ANGARA BATS FOR THE ADVANCEMENT
OF RESPIRATORY THERAPY PROFESSION

With pollution being uncontrollable, damaging not only our environment but our health as well, it is inevitable for government to step in and make actions to prevent it from spreading and address current problems. Senator Edgardo J. Angara introduced and filed the Philippine Respiratory Therapy Bill as a response in these rising health concerns.

"The advancement of science and the influx of modern technology have led man into an endless pursuit of improvement in our quality of health and life. Due to these developments, the medical field which plays a vital role in this pursuit has branched out into specialized professions like nursing, medical technology, radiology technology, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and including respiratory therapy," said Angara who chairs the Senate Committee on Science and Technology.

Respiratory therapy is an allied health profession specializing in the assessment and treatment of respiratory and cardiovascular pathologies. Respiratory therapists are involved in the treatment of chronic lung problems such as asthma, bronchitis, emphysema and more acute multi-systemic problems due to other pathological conditions including heart attacks and stroke.

Among others, acute bronchitis, asthma, pneumonia, and pulmonary illness are only few of the rampant respiratory problems that are popular in the Philippines and in the world.

With SB 3139 that seeks to recognize the important role respiratory therapist play in our society through the following provisions it will develop and nurture competent therapist that will attend to the health needs of the Filipino people;

Creation of a Professional Regulatory Board of Respiratory Therapy under the administrative supervision and control of the Professional Regulation Commission; Licensure examination requirement for all applicants for registration for the practice of respiratory therapy and; Guidelines and regulations involving the practice of respiratory therapy in the country.

"By professionalizing and regulating the practice of respiratory therapy in the country, the bill adheres to the greater role of the State to protect and promote the right to health of the people. In the end, our end goal is to promote quality of life and good health for every Filipino," added Angara.

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