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South Peninsula Hospital (Homepage Link).

Respiratory Therapy

South Peninsula Hospital, 4300 Bartlett Street, Entrance B  •  (907) 235-0350

South Peninsula Hospital’s Respiratory Therapy Department provides diagnostic testing, treatment, and monitoring for patients with a wide range of heart and lung conditions. We care for patients of all ages, from newborns to older adults. In addition to serving patients at the hospital, we also support individuals around the southern Kenai Peninsula and communities across Kachemak Bay.

We work with patients experiencing a wide range of obstructive and restrictive lung conditions, including common conditions such as asthma and COPD, as well as other breathing and cardiopulmonary concerns.

Our respiratory therapists have been expertly trained in large, high-acuity hospitals in the lower 48, bringing broad experience across emergency care, obstetrics, intensive care, medical-surgical care, and outpatient respiratory services.

Using advanced equipment for both treatment and testing, we provide high-quality respiratory care with personal attention and a deep commitment to helping our neighbors live better, healthier lives.

Services

Respiratory Therapy

Respiratory therapy services support patients with breathing and lung-related conditions in both the hospital and outpatient setting. This may include breathing treatments, airway support, oxygen assessment, ventilator support, and ongoing evaluation of respiratory symptoms. Our therapists work closely with providers and other members of the care team to help patients breathe more comfortably and safely.

Cardiac Monitoring

We provide extended cardiac monitoring for patients who need evaluation of heart rhythm symptoms over time. Monitoring is available for periods ranging from 3 to 14 days, helping providers detect intermittent irregular heart rhythms that may not appear during a brief office visit. We use the same Bardy monitoring system used by Alaska Heart Institute.

Arterial Blood Gas Testing

Arterial blood gas (ABG) testing measures oxygen, carbon dioxide, and acid-base balance in the blood. This test can help providers assess how well the lungs are functioning and guide treatment decisions for patients with respiratory or metabolic concerns. ABG testing is available in both inpatient and outpatient settings.

Exercise Stress Testing

Exercise stress testing helps providers evaluate how the heart responds to physical activity. During the test, your heart rhythm, heart rate, and blood pressure are monitored while you exercise. This can help identify signs of heart disease or other concerns that may not be present when the body is at rest.

Home Oxygen Evaluation

Home oxygen evaluations help determine whether a patient needs supplemental oxygen at home. These assessments may be completed in the hospital or as an outpatient and are used to evaluate oxygen levels during rest and activity, helping ensure patients receive the support they need for safe daily living.

Pulmonary Function Testing

Pulmonary function testing (PFT) measures how well the lungs are working. These tests help evaluate conditions such as asthma, COPD, and other breathing disorders by assessing airflow, lung volume, and how effectively the lungs move oxygen. We also offer bronchoprovocation testing with methacholine or mannitol when more detailed evaluation is needed.

Contact Respiratory Therapy

(907) 235-0350

What to Expect as a Patient

Getting Started

For most outpatient respiratory services, your provider will send us an order or referral. Once we receive it, our team will contact you to schedule your appointment. You are also welcome to call and confirm that we have received your order.

Your Visit

What your appointment looks like will depend on the service you need. Some tests, such as pulmonary function testing or exercise stress testing, may take longer and include step-by-step instructions from your respiratory therapist. Others, like an EKG, are quicker and may not require a scheduled appointment. No matter the service, our team will explain what to expect and answer your questions along the way.

After Your Appointment

Your results will be sent to the provider who ordered the test, and they will review next steps with you. Depending on your condition and treatment plan, you may return for additional testing, follow-up care, or ongoing respiratory support. If you ever have questions about your respiratory care, our team is happy to help.

Inpatient Respiratory Care

If you are receiving care in the hospital, a respiratory therapist may come to your room as part of your treatment plan. Respiratory therapists are involved in care throughout the hospital, including the Emergency Department, ICU, OB, and inpatient units, and work closely with your providers and nurses to support your breathing and overall recovery.

FAQ

Do I need a referral?

Yes. For most outpatient respiratory services, your provider will send an order or referral, and our team will contact you to schedule. You are also welcome to call and confirm that we have received the order.

I have a referral for an EKG. Do I need an appointment?

No. EKGs are typically performed on a walk-in basis. We do recommend calling first to confirm that your provider’s order has been received.

What conditions do you treat?

We help care for patients with obstructive and restrictive pulmonary diseases, including common conditions such as asthma and COPD, as well as other breathing and cardiopulmonary concerns.

How long will my test take?

The length of your visit depends on the service being performed. Some tests, like an EKG, are brief, while others, such as pulmonary function testing or exercise stress testing, may take longer. Our team can give you a better estimate when scheduling.

Do I need to do anything special before my appointment?

Some respiratory tests require preparation, while others do not. If your test has any special instructions, such as avoiding certain medications or inhalers beforehand, we will let you know when your appointment is scheduled.

How will I get my results?

Results are sent to the provider who ordered your test. Results are also uploaded to your patient portal.

Do you provide care in the hospital as well as the clinic?

Yes. Our respiratory therapists care for patients in inpatient and outpatient settings, including the Emergency Department, ICU, Birthing Center, medical-surgical unit, and in our outpatient respiratory clinic.

Do you see children?

Yes. We care for patients of all ages, from newborns through older adults.

Call (907) 235-0350

Insurance

We accept all insurances including Medicare, Medicaid, Tri-Care, BlueCross and Denali Kid Care. We highly recommend contacting your insurance company for pre-authorization and specifics regarding coverage of services. Payment plans and prompt payment discounts are available.