Filipino Nurses Help Shape the U. S. Healthcare System
For generations, nurses have been the backbone of the American healthcare system. Deemed the unsung heroes during the Covid pandemic, the harsh realities nurses face were brought to light, and we were given a glimpse of the human behind the hero, including an invisible hero—the Filipino nurse. In 2019, one out of 20 nurses was trained in the Philippines and, tragically, 24% of the nurses who died from Covid-19 complications were Filipino.
While Filipinos comprise only 1% of the U.S. population, they make up 4% of the nursing workforce. Their growth in this specialty dates back to the end of the 19th century when, due to U.S. colonization of the Philippines, Filipinos were permitted to become U.S. nationals and train under the U.S. army as nurses. This loophole provided access to working abroad and returning to the Philippines to establish westernized nursing schools, creating a path with little to no restriction for other Filipinos to practice nursing in the U.S.
During times of crisis, America called on Filipino nurses, who were familiar with the Americanized nursing system, to help fill gaps in staffing at hospitals and other healthcare facilities. As a result, there was an influx of Filipino nurses into the country over the next several decades. They embedded themselves as an integral part of the American healthcare system.
This opportunity, however, did not come without a price. Knowing many Filipino nurses were drawn to the U.S. for economic gain, they were often placed in understaffed hospitals and tough-working environments. Despite inequities in pay and treatment, Filipino nurses continue to lend their expertise and experience to support the American healthcare system.
Filipino nurses continue to advance science at NIH, including at the National Institute of Nursing Research (NINR). NINR applies nursing’s knowledge and perspectives to solve pressing health challenges and advance health equity.
During Filipino American Heritage Month, we honor the many Filipinos who have contributed to the science and research infrastructure at NIH. As various public health issues continue to affect the health of Americans and the world, Filipinos will continue to contribute to science toward improving health and social outcomes.
At NIH, Filipino scholars have contributed to health discoveries for decades.
Spotlight on Current NINR Filipino Scientists
Dr. Leorey Saligan, an NINR senior tenured investigator, aims to better understand how physical and cognitive decline impact cancer treatments. His innovative approach aims to identify factors that can improve function for cancer survivors and those living with chronic illness.
By studying the effects of social determinants and climate change, postdoctoral fellows at NINR Dr. Carielle Joy Rio and Dr. Erwin Leyva aim to understand how health outcomes can vary for the most vulnerable populations.
Two Former Filipino Scientists
Dr. Eduardo Padlan, a structural biologist, joined the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) in the 1970s. He expanded his work in antibody structure and ‘humanization’ of antibodies paving the way for therapeutic management of multiple conditions, including cancer.
Dr. Manuel Datiles III, a retired senior investigator with the National Eye Institute (NEI) was a world-renowned expert in cataract pathogenesis, prevention and treatment. He was instrumental in establishing the NIH operating room for eye surgery, investigating the role of aldose reductase inhibitor in preventing cataracts, and the development of a special clinical device that could aid in the discovery of non-surgical cataract treatments.