Evaluating the Impact of Respiratory Therapist–Led Case Management on Chronic Respiratory Disease Outcomes

Abstract

Respiratory diseases, particularly asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), continue to present major public health and economic challenges in the United States. These chronic conditions contribute significantly to healthcare expenditures and are associated with elevated morbidity and mortality rates. As healthcare systems shift toward value-based care, there is growing emphasis on strategies that improve chronic disease outcomes while containing costs One promising solution is the expanded role of respiratory therapists (RTs) in case management. Given the burden of chronic respiratory diseases and the evidence supporting coordinated care, this paper examines the potential benefits of integrating RTs into case management positions. Through analysis of population-level data and a review of current care models, the goal is to assess whether RT-led case management can improve outcomes and 
reduce utilization in asthma and COPD populations. The purpose of this research is to evaluate the impact of integrating respiratory therapists (RTs) into case management positions, with particular emphasis on their impact on clinical outcomes, care coordination, and cost-effectiveness in the management of chronic respiratory diseases.