Nurse migration and its implications for Philippine hospitals

Area of Science:

• Healthcare Management
• Nursing Workforce Studies
• Global Health Migration

Background:

• The Philippines is a leading global source of registered nurses (RNs) due to international migration.
• Both 'push' and 'pull' factors drive Filipino RNs to seek overseas employment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the current state of registered nurse (RN) staffing within Philippine hospitals.
• To compare staffing conditions between government and private healthcare facilities.

Main Methods:

• A survey was administered to 200 hospital chiefs of nurses in the Philippines.
• Data collection involved self-administered mailed questionnaires.

Main Results:

• Majority of RNs (73%) are under 40 years old and 85% are female.
• Government hospitals reported lower RN vacancy and turnover rates than private hospitals.
• Recruiting experienced RNs is more challenging for private hospitals; higher salaries, benefits, and career opportunities are key incentives.

Conclusions:

• RN staffing in government hospitals is more favorable, evidenced by longer employment tenure, lower vacancy/turnover rates, and better recruitment/retention of experienced nurses.
• Overseas nurse migration accounts for a significant portion (59%) of total RN turnover in the Philippines.