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Manitoba Healthcare Crisis: Respiratory Therapist Shortage Deepens

  //health-fitness.news-articles.net/content/2026/ .. isis-respiratory-therapist-shortage-deepens.html
  Published in Health and Fitness on Thursday, February 5th 2026 at 19:01 GMT by Global News
      Locales: Manitoba, CANADA

Winnipeg, Man. - February 6th, 2026 - Manitoba's healthcare system is facing a mounting crisis as a severe shortage of respiratory therapists continues to impact patient care, leading to surgery cancellations, extended wait times, and a growing exodus of experienced professionals. The situation, which began to escalate in late 2024, shows no signs of abating and is now prompting calls for systemic changes to recruitment, retention, and professional recognition.

Respiratory therapists (RTs) are crucial members of the healthcare team, specializing in the assessment, treatment, and management of patients with respiratory illnesses. Their expertise is vital not only for those battling conditions like pneumonia and asthma but also for individuals undergoing procedures requiring mechanical ventilation - a rapidly increasing need given the aging population and rise in complex chronic illnesses. They are indispensable in emergency situations, particularly during respiratory crises such as severe influenza outbreaks or, as witnessed earlier in the decade, novel viral pandemics.

Dianne Jabusch, president of the Manitoba Nurses Union, warns the current situation is untenable. "The consequences are becoming increasingly visible and dangerous. We're seeing essential surgeries postponed, patients discharged prematurely, and our dedicated staff stretched to their absolute limits. This isn't just about numbers; it's about the quality and safety of care Manitobans deserve."

Darren Logan, president of the Manitoba Respiratory Therapist Association, paints a grim picture of a profession under duress. "Burnout is rampant. We're losing experienced RTs at an alarming rate - not just to retirement, but to other provinces and even to different careers altogether. The combination of inadequate compensation, limited career pathways, and a consistently overwhelming workload is simply unsustainable." Logan elaborates that the pressures have intensified since 2024, exacerbated by an increased demand for specialized respiratory care related to long-COVID complications and a growing incidence of obstructive sleep apnea.

Reports from Health Sciences Centre in Winnipeg indicate that, in some cases, patients are being discharged before they are medically ready simply because there are insufficient RTs to provide the necessary post-operative or ongoing respiratory support. This practice, while intended to alleviate immediate pressure on hospital resources, raises serious concerns about potential readmission rates and long-term patient outcomes.

The provincial government has acknowledged the severity of the issue and initiated a review of potential solutions. Proposed measures include salary increases and expanded training programs. However, Logan contends that these steps, while necessary, are insufficient. "A modest salary bump isn't going to solve a systemic problem. We need a comprehensive strategy that addresses the root causes of the shortage, including recognizing the advanced skills and responsibilities of RTs through career laddering opportunities, fostering a supportive work environment, and investing in professional development."

Further complicating the issue is the province's reliance on travel nurses and temporary agency staff to fill critical gaps. While providing short-term relief, this approach is expensive and doesn't address the underlying shortage of permanently qualified RTs. It also disrupts continuity of care and can place an additional burden on existing staff who must train and orient temporary colleagues.

Experts suggest Manitoba could benefit from mirroring successful recruitment and retention strategies employed in other provinces, such as Alberta and British Columbia, which have seen relative success in stabilizing their RT workforces. These strategies often include robust financial incentives, comprehensive mentorship programs, and a stronger emphasis on work-life balance.

The Manitoba Respiratory Therapist Association is advocating for increased funding for RT education programs within the province, as well as streamlined pathways for internationally trained RTs to become licensed and practice in Manitoba. They also propose establishing a dedicated Respiratory Therapy Advisory Council, composed of healthcare professionals, educators, and government representatives, to provide ongoing guidance and oversight on workforce planning and policy development.

The long-term implications of the respiratory therapist shortage are significant, potentially leading to a further decline in healthcare access and quality for Manitobans. Without decisive action, the situation is projected to worsen, placing an even greater strain on an already overburdened healthcare system.