Collaborative project addresses unique challenges faced by nurses in PH

Embarking on the Visiting Professor Project (VPP) was not merely an academic endeavor for me; it was an impassioned journey rooted in the belief that Filipino nurses, particularly those in the diaspora, have a profound responsibility to pay it forward.

Serving as one of the two visiting professors in this collaborative initiative between the Filipino Nursing Diaspora Network (FiND Network) and Shearwater Health has been a privilege that goes beyond the confines of traditional teaching.

As I traversed through four universities in Panay/Region 6 of the Philippines, the warmth and enthusiasm emanating from both students and faculty were palpable.

The collaborative spirit fostered by the VPP, with its strategic partnership between the FiND Network and Shearwater Health, provided an unparalleled platform for me to share my knowledge and experiences. It was more than just disseminating information; it was about instilling a sense of empowerment, nurturing a culture of inquiry, and igniting a passion for research among the nursing community.

Shearwater Health’s commitment to advancing health-care outcomes and careers for Filipino nurses through strategic partnerships is commendable.

The Managed Migration and Back-to-Bedside Program, operating in six hospitals across diverse locations, is a testament to the company’s dedication to enhancing opportunities for Filipino health-care professionals.

The Nursing Scholars Program, offering full scholarships to fourth-year college students, not only provides access to education but also serves as a pathway to future employment. Additionally, the USRN Academy and Medical Coding Academy Programs underscore Shearwater Health’s commitment to continuous skill enhancement, ensuring that Filipino nurses remain at the forefront of the ever-evolving health-care landscape.

The importance of corporate social responsibility is particularly evident in Shearwater Health’s initiatives, extending beyond the individual and addressing broader issues in the health-care sector. The company’s efforts contribute not only to the professional development of Filipino health-care talent but also to improving patient outcomes globally. It’s a holistic approach that recognizes the interconnectedness of individual well-being and the larger health-care ecosystem.

As a visiting professor, I keenly felt the impact of this collaborative effort on the ground. The VPP is not just a project; it’s a catalyst for change, addressing the unique challenges faced by nurses in the Philippines. The inclusion of seasoned professionals from the diaspora, like myself, ensured that the knowledge imparted was not just theoretical but grounded in practical insights drawn from diverse health-care systems worldwide.

This approach equips local nurses with a comprehensive skill set, preparing them to navigate the complexities of the health-care field with confidence and competence.

The collaborative research initiatives sparked by the connections formed during the VPP go beyond the boundaries of individual universities.

This collaborative spirit is vital for addressing complex health-care issues, pooling resources, and generating impactful solutions that can have a far-reaching effect on patient care and health-care systems.

As I conclude my immersive experience with the Visiting Professor Project, the flames of passion and commitment to advancing health care in the Philippines burn brighter than ever.

Violeta Lopez, RN, Ph.D., FACN