Correctional Respiratory Therapist (OTxHU) - CHS

New York City Health and Hospitals Corporation

Outposted Therapeutic Housing Units Program (OTxHU)

Since 2016, Correctional Health Services (CHS) has been the direct provider of health care in the New York City jails. Deeply committed to human dignity and patient rights, CHS is part of the NYC Health + Hospitals system and is a key partner in the City’s efforts to reform the criminal-legal system. Our in-jail clinical services include medical, nursing, and mental health care; pharmacy services; substance-use treatment; social work; dental and vision care; discharge planning; and reentry support.

Given the high visibility of this initiative, we are seeking the highest caliber health care professionals in key clinical services to staff our Outposted Therapeutic Housing Units (OTxHU). To be located in three NYC Health + Hospital acute care facilities, the OTxHU is a pioneering approach to safely increasing access to high quality clinical care for patients in custody who have complicated health conditions. OTxHUs will bridge the gap in the continuum between care provided in the jails and inpatient hospitalization, with admission to and discharge from the OTxHU in accordance with a patient’s clinical needs. CHS will be the primary health care providers on these units and the NYC Department of Correction will provide security and custody management.

The OTxHU at NYC Health + Hospitals/Bellevue in Manhattan will be the first of this unique, groundbreaking project to open with a planned completion date as early as the end of 2024. This is an incredible opportunity to be part of a passionate and motivated team providing care to some of the City’s most marginalized, vulnerable people.

• To help support continuity of operations and care, staff selected to work in the OTxHU may also be required to work in CHS locations within the jails. Additionally, while CHS seeks the most qualified individuals for these positions, preference will be given to equally qualified, internal candidates.

8:00 A.M – 4:00 P.M

• Facility: OTxHU Bellevue
• Note: Staff selected for OTxHU may also be required to work at CHS locations on Rikers Island.
  

Corporate Title: Respiratory Therapist

Functional Job Title: Correctional Health Respiratory Therapist

The Respiratory Therapist will provide high-quality respiratory care to persons in custody (PIC) within the correctional facility, assisting with the management of respiratory conditions, and supporting the overall health and well-being of the incarcerated population. This role will require clinical expertise, excellent patient care skills, and the ability to work in a challenging, high-security environment.

Key Responsibilities:

• Assess and evaluate respiratory conditions, including performing comprehensive respiratory assessments on inmates.
• Administer prescribed respiratory treatments, including nebulizer therapy, oxygen therapy, CPAP/BiPAP, chest physiotherapy, and aerosol therapy.
• Monitor and interpret patient vital signs, lung sounds, and oxygen levels.
• Perform diagnostic tests, including pulmonary function testing, arterial blood gas sampling, and sputum analysis.
• Collaborate with physicians, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to develop and implement individualized care plans.
• Provide education to PIC on the proper use of respiratory equipment and the management of chronic respiratory conditions such as asthma, COPD, and pneumonia.
• Document all respiratory treatments, assessments, and patient interactions accurately and in compliance with facility protocols.
• Assist with the maintenance and calibration of respiratory equipment to ensure safety and effectiveness.
• Ensure compliance with state and federal healthcare regulations, including those specific to correctional settings.
• Maintain a safe and sanitary work environment by following infection control and safety protocols.
• Stay up-to-date with the latest respiratory care technologies, techniques, and best practices.

Working Conditions:

• The role is located in a correctional facility with security protocols in place.
• May require standing for extended periods, lifting equipment, and assisting with patient transfers.
• Exposure to medical and environmental risks inherent in a correctional healthcare setting.
• Shift work may be required, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.

1. High School graduation or its equivalent; and,
2. Graduation from a one-year Certificate respiratory therapy education program approved by the New York State Board of Education or a program determined equivalent in accordance with the Commissioner of the State Board of Education's regulations; and,
3. Possession of a current license to practice as a Respiratory Therapy Technician in the State of New York; or,
4. At the time of appointment, possess a valid New York State issued limited permit to practice as a licensed Respiratory Therapy Technician in the State of New York. Employees who fail to obtain their license to practice as a licensed Respiratory Technician prior to the expiration date of their limited permit will be ineligible to retain the position of Respiratory Therapy Technician.
Assignment Level II Special Requirements:
In addition to meeting the qualification requirements for Respiratory Therapy Technician Level I, candidates must possess current certification by the National Board of Respiratory Therapy.
Special Notes:
Individuals providing respiratory therapy services in New York on or after January 1, 1994 who believe they will meet and submit documented evidence from the State Education Department, Division of Professional Licensing Services of receipt of an application for licensure under the so-called grandparenting provisions of the new licensing law may continue to practice until either December 31, 1994 or receiving notice from the State Education Department of denial of licensure, whichever occurs first.
At the time of appointment, and to retain the position of Respiratory Therapy Technician, individuals must meet and maintain the licensure requirements for the position as set forth by the New York State Education Department covering the practice of respiratory therapy.

• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Respiratory Therapy from an accredited program.
• Current Respiratory Therapist (RRT or CRT) license in the state of employment.
• Certification in Basic Life Support (BLS) required.
• Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS) preferred.
• Minimum of 2 years of experience as a Respiratory Therapist, with a preference for experience in correctional health, hospital, or emergency care settings.
• Strong knowledge of respiratory care techniques, respiratory pathophysiology, and pharmacology.
• Ability to work effectively in a high-security, fast-paced, and sometimes stressful environment.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to work with diverse populations, including individuals with various behavioral and health issues.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and adhere to ethical and professional standards.
• Strong organizational and time-management skills, with attention to detail.
• Ability to adapt to changing medical protocols and environments.

NYC Health and Hospitals offers a competitive benefits package that includes:

• Comprehensive Health Benefits for employees hired to work 20+ hrs. per week
• Retirement Savings and Pension Plans
• Paid Holidays and Vacation in accordance with employees' Collectively bargained contracts
• Loan Forgiveness Programs for eligible employees
• College tuition discounts and professional development opportunities
• College Savings Program
• Union Benefits for eligible titles
• Multiple employee discounts programs
• Commuter Benefits Programs

If you wish to apply for this position, please apply online by clicking the "Apply for Job" button.