AaRT was created by Alberta RTs, for Alberta RTs. The association exists to provide a unified provincial voice focused on advocacy, professional support, connection, and advancement of Respiratory Therapy in Alberta. By joining AaRT, members can: Help shape the future of the profession Connect with RTs across Alberta Participate in leadership and advocacy initiatives Access profession-specific educational opportunities Support recognition and growth of Respiratory Therapy Contribute to provincial conversations affecting RT practice Participate in Respiratory Therapy Week and community initiatives AaRT’s strength comes from its members. The more engaged the Respiratory Therapy community becomes, the stronger the collective voice for the profession will be.

The College of Respiratory Therapists of Alberta (CRTA) is the regulatory body responsible for protecting the public through: Registration and licensure Standards of practice Continuing competence requirements Professional conduct processes The Alberta Association of Respiratory Therapists (AaRT) is the professional association focused on: Professional advocacy Member support Leadership opportunities Professional community and engagement Advancement of the profession within Alberta A simple way to think about it CRTA regulates the profession and AaRT advocates for and supports the profession. Another helpful comparison: The College is like your driver’s licence — required to legally practice. The Association is like roadside assistance — providing support, advocacy, connection, and professional benefits.

Historically, many healthcare professions in Alberta combined regulatory and advocacy functions within one organization. However, provincial legislation through Bill 46 required regulatory colleges and professional associations to separate these responsibilities to avoid conflicts of interest. As a result, the CRTA now focuses strictly on public protection and professional regulation, while AaRT was created to focus on professional advocacy, member engagement, and support for Respiratory Therapists in Alberta.

AaRT has worked collaboratively with the Canadian Society of Respiratory Therapists (CSRT) throughout the development of the association. CSRT has provided valuable guidance and support related to governance, bylaws, and organizational development. AaRT and CSRT remain separate organizations with different mandates and scopes, but AaRT values the collaborative relationship and support that has been provided.

Board positions are elected terms that are generally not less than 2 years and not more than 4 years, unless selected for an Officer position. The Board may consist of approximately 8–12 members. Current Officer roles include: President Past President/President Elect Director of Finance Director of Relations/Administrator When Board positions become available, calls for interest and nominations will be shared with the membership and posted through the website and communications. If you are interested in a future Board position, volunteering is a great place to start.

Currently, AaRT does not have the membership size required to independently offer discounted Professional Liability Insurance (PLI) options. At this time, AaRT supports the CSRT in providing the most affordable PLI option currently available for Alberta Respiratory Therapists. As membership grows, AaRT may explore future independent PLI opportunities if identified as a priority by members.

Yes. AaRT’s purpose is to advocate for Alberta Respiratory Therapists and support the advancement of the profession within the province. Advocacy efforts may include: Supporting professional recognition and awareness Promoting expansion of RT scope of practice Engaging with healthcare organizations and government stakeholders Supporting workforce and professional practice discussions Addressing issues identified by members Advocacy priorities will continue to evolve based on member feedback and emerging healthcare needs across Alberta.

AaRT is currently exploring additional membership and partnership structures as the organization grows. Further information regarding associate, retired, corporate, or supporter categories will be shared once finalized. If you have questions, contact us.