Redefining Credentialing: Innovation, Impact, and the Future of Respiratory Care

In this episode of Wednesday With Wade, we had the privilege of speaking with Lori Tinkler, the CEO of the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC). With over three decades of experience in healthcare leadership, Lori has played a pivotal role in transforming credentialing processes and advocating for the growth of the respiratory therapy profession. In this insightful conversation, Lori shares her journey and the innovative strategies driving the future of credentialing and respiratory care.

Key Takeaways:

Reimagining Credentialing: Lori discussed how the NBRC refocused on its core mission after selling its subsidiary in 2015, embracing innovation in credentialing to enhance the profession. She emphasized the importance of staying true to the mission while adopting new strategies for modernization.

MoreRTs.com – Marketing with Purpose: Lori shared the story behind MoreRTs.com, a video-driven campaign launched during the pandemic to recruit students into the respiratory therapy field. By telling powerful patient stories, the campaign has continued to inspire new entrants into the profession while showcasing the impact of respiratory therapists on patient care.

Investing in the Future of Respiratory Therapy: Lori highlighted NBRC’s $6 million commitment to funding scholarships for respiratory therapy programs, including $5,000 per accredited program in 2022 and $10,000 per program in 2024. This initiative aims to support and expand the pipeline of new respiratory therapists.

Longitudinal Assessments – The Future of Credentialing: Lori explained how NBRC is leading the way with its longitudinal assessment program, which moves beyond traditional continuing education. This quarterly, scenario-based approach ensures healthcare professionals are staying up-to-date with current practices and continuing to deliver high-quality patient care.

A Vision for the Future of Healthcare Credentialing: Lori offered a glimpse into the future of credentialing, including plans for a streamlined credentialing exam that combines two previous exams into one. This effort is designed to reduce complexity and increase accessibility while maintaining rigorous standards for certification.

Leadership Philosophy: Reflecting on her 34 years of leadership, Lori shared her philosophy: “Stay true to your mission—but be willing to step outside your box.” She discussed the importance of agility, adaptability, and always striving for innovation, especially in a constantly evolving healthcare landscape.

Lori Outside the Office: When she’s not leading NBRC, Lori enjoys cheering on her daughter’s college softball team, spending time in the garden, and engaging in community service with organizations like the Boys and Girls Club and Go Red for Women.

This conversation provides a powerful look at how thoughtful leadership, innovation, and a commitment to the mission are shaping the future of healthcare credentialing. Lori’s insights remind us that effective leadership in healthcare involves embracing change, investing in the future, and always keeping the needs of the profession and the patients it serves at the heart of decision-making.