Ishpeming woman named to State Board of Respiratory Care

LANSING, Mich. – Gov. Rick Snyder today announced the appointment of Debra Dix, of Ishpeming, to the Michigan Board of Respiratory Care.

The 11-member board assists the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs in overseeing the licensure requirements and standards for Michigan’s respiratory therapists.

“Debra brings nearly 40 years of outstanding experience to this board,” said Snyder. “I am confident she will effectively serve in this role.”

Dix is the cardiopulmonary department manager at Bell Hospital, a position she has held since 2007. She previously served 30 years as a staff therapist, pulmonary function technologist and pulmonary rehabilitation program coordinator for Marquette General Health System. Dix holds a an associate degree in respiratory therapy from Maricopa Technical Community College in Arizona and a bachelor’s degree in health services management from Independence University. She will represent respiratory therapists and fills a vacancy created by the death of James Berry.

Dix will serve the remainder of a four-year term that expires Dec. 31, 2013, and her appointment is subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.