The Implications of Filipino Nursing in America: A Historical Review

The Philippines is one of the largest exporters of nurses across the world, yet continues to suffer disproportionately from nursing shortages domestically. The purpose of this paper is to examine the historical context of Filipino nurses in America, regarding the policies of migration and the current context for Filipino nursing labor in the United States. While the United States is just one of the countries to receive imported Filipino laborers, this paper will focus on the continued relationship between the United States and the Philippines to export labor for economical gain on both ends. Upon reviewing the history and policies of Filipino nursing migration to America, the aim is to explore the consequences of this export, relating to healthcare outcomes, emotional distress, and economic stability. This historical review examines the future needs on ethnic studies integration, continued research on the contribution of Filipino nurses to America, policies surrounding exported labor, and the need for changes in the United States clinical nursing practice.