Thompson Rivers University will be adding 20 new fast-track seats to the school’s respiratory therapist diploma program, thanks to $320,000 in funding from the Ministry of Health.

That money will allow the university to expand the program by adding the diploma fast-track stream to June, 2023. Students began the program last month, the province said, in a statement.

“We are committed to training, recruiting, and hiring a new generation of health-care professionals at all levels, including respiratory therapists, who are vital members of the health-care team,” Health Minister Adrian Dix said. “This program is an excellent example of home-grown talent adding to our health-care system.”

“On Respiratory Therapy Week, I would like to recognize respiratory therapists working with patients during the COVID-19 pandemic, and I thank the students who embark on this career path.”

Additionally, the Ministry of Advanced Education is also giving TRU $65,900 in one-time funding for training equipment for this program, including a ventilator to support student learning.

“The expansion of the respiratory therapy program will fulfil a high-demand need for trained professionals, who will learn in TRU’s new Chappell Family Building for Nursing and Population Health,” TRU president Brett Fairbairn said.

“The growth of this program will allow students to transform themselves and the health of the communities they will support in the future.”

Students with a Bachelor of Science or Associate of Science degree can apply for the fast-track option, which can be completed in two years. Students are also able to directly enter the second year of the diploma program after successfully completing other requisite coursework.

“Respiratory therapists play an incredibly important role in our health-care system across Interior Health, including RIH,” said Tracey Rannie, the Executive Director of Clinical Operations at RIH.

“This additional investment will support people throughout the Thompson-Cariboo region and bring much-needed access to these highly trained professionals for Interior Health.”