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Who We Are

At LARC, we’re committed to enhancing respiratory care in Lebanon through advocacy, professional development, and public awareness.

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Our Story

The Lebanese Association of Respiratory Care (LARC) is a non-profit, non-political, and non-sectarian organization founded in 2024 by respiratory therapy professionals, educators, and health advocates. LARC was born from the urgent need to recognize and institutionalize the role of respiratory care in Lebanon’s fragile healthcare system.

Before LARC, Lebanon had no official recognition for respiratory therapists. There were no academic programs, no licensure, and no unified voice to support this life-saving profession. Today, LARC is leading the way to change that through education, national advocacy, and direct patient support.

Our Vision

To establish respiratory care as a recognized, respected, and regulated profession in Lebanon with accessible services, protected rights, and a national system that ensures quality care for every breath.

Our History

Founder Elected to ICRC

Moustapha Khaywa was elected as Lebanon’s representative to the International Council for Respiratory Care (ICRC).

First Academic Program Launched

Moustapha launched the first academic respiratory therapy program at Makassed University of Beirut, in partnership with ICRC and AARC.

LARC Was Founded

Recognizing the broader national gap, Moustapha and a team of pioneers founded LARC.

Our Mission

  • Empower and certify respiratory therapy professionals
  • Advocate for national legislation and professional syndication
  • Improve public awareness about respiratory diseases
  • Provide charitable support to patients in need
  • Create partnerships with universities, hospitals, and international health bodies
  • Build national registries and research capacity in respiratory health

Our Values

  • Integrity: We act transparently and ethically
  • Equity: We serve all communities regardless of background
  • Excellence: We set and promote the highest clinical standards
  • Solidarity: We support one another and our patients
  • Empowerment: We train, elevate, and advocate

Leadership & Advisors

President

Moustapha Khaywa

Vice President

Lama Hariri

Secretary

Noura Fakhreddine

Treasurer

Mahmoud Hariri

Accounting

Ibrahim Mneimneh

Medical Advisors

  • Dr. Wael Jarouche — Pulmonary, ICU Head, Medical Director at Makassed General Hospital
  • Dr. Clara Chamoun — Pulmonary Allergy & Sleep Medicine, Head of ICU
  • Dr. Mahmoud Harb — Head of Surgical Intensive Unit
  • Dr. Joumana Alameh — Head of Neonatal Intensive Care Unit

Coordinators

  • Education, Awareness, Research: Hala Jawhary, Fatimah Abou Zeid, Mohammad Daibes
  • Charity Coordinator: Israa Kharoub

Ready to Make a Difference?

Join us in building a healthier Lebanon — Together, we give breath and hope to thousands through education, advocacy, and care.

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