Most call it licensing. Others say credentialing or certification. Whatever the terminology, you will have to meet certain requirements to practice your healthcare discipline in any given state. Because these qualifications differ throughout the nation, you should gather this information from the state in which you wish to practice as soon as possible. To help you become familiar with these qualifications, we have compiled a state-by-state summary of practice requirements. We start with respiratory therapy and will continue with occupational therapy, pharmacy, nursing and physical therapy in later issues. For more complete information, contact appropriate state licensing/credentialing agencies. Their phone numbers and addresses will be featured in HT&T's upcoming Resource Directories.