THIS might be a bold claim, but there is great reason to believe that Filipino nurses are the most sought-after health care professionals in the world. In the United States, Middle East, Japan, Australia, most European countries, and several other countries worldwide, Filipino nurses are most loved by both patients and employers not only because of their proficiency in the English language, their competencies and their work ethic, but more so for the Filipino brand of nursing service which, more often than not, extends the “extra mile” in caring compassionately for their patients, especially those already in their twilight chapters.
Recognized for their contribution to the United Kingdom’s response to the coronavirus, Filipino Nurses Charito Romano and Minnie Klepacz were awarded the British Empire Medal in 2021. Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II even wrote in a message to then President Rodrigo Duterte her commendation on the services of Filipino nurses in U.K., saying: “They bring exceptional care and comfort to their patients. I wanted to express my sincerest gratitude for their work, especially in response to the coronavirus.” Elsewhere in the world, Filipino nurses continue to shine, giving not only the basic health care which patients need, but sharing as well a part of themselves to offer compassion, comfort and care.
There are actually 951, 905 registered Filipino nurses, according to the Professional Regulation Commission. Out of this number, only 509,297 or 53.55 percent are in actual practice. Added to this, an estimated 19,000 Filipino nurses migrate every year to other countries which offer more substantial pay and incentives packages as well as opportunities for permanent residency for them and their families.
Who wouldn’t be lured with that chance at living better lives in better countries? The exodus of Filipino medical professionals, including doctors and nurses, continue to threaten the Philippine health care system. Unless the Department of Health can offer commensurable options, then we watch helplessly as our doctors and nurses flee.
I think it is utterly unfair for Filipino nurses choosing to work abroad to be labelled ungrateful or unpatriotic. If comparable opportunities can only be made available for them here, I am sure they would not decide to leave home. With costs of living rising disproportionately with work pay and incentives, we cannot blame the likes of Filipino nurses seeking broader and brighter horizons. The current shortage of nurses is at a high of about 106,000.
While legislation to advance the welfare and interest of our health care professionals are well underway, their flight continues. Recognizing the valuable contribution of Filipino nurses in sustaining the Philippine health care system may not be enough. Unless and until these professionals can clearly see a brighter ray of hope for them in their home country, they will continue to sacrifice being distant and missing time if it will mean better opportunities, better lives for their families. (Sponsored Content)