International Nurses Bring Talent and Dedication to GBMC

In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, healthcare systems nationwide faced unprecedented staffing challenges. At GBMC, innovative solutions were essential to ensure that patients continued to receive the high-quality care they deserve. Among the most successful of these initiatives has been the introduction of international nurses to our team, a program that not only supports our staffing needs but also offers life-changing opportunities for these skilled professionals.

Meeting Critical Needs with International Expertise

Following the pandemic, GBMC began contracting with an agency to recruit international nurses, primarily from the Philippines but also from other countries. The goal was to fill critical nursing positions across departments but especially within areas such as emergency medicine, medical/surgical/telemetry units, perioperative services, and intensive care. "These nurses have been an integral part of our team, providing exceptional care and uplifting one another during challenging times," says Jill Wheeler, MSN, RN, Senior Clinical Nursing Director.

The program’s success has been so significant that GBMC is now working to convert contracted international nurses into full-time employees. Simultaneously, we’re partnering with a new agency to directly hire 30 additional international nurses, allowing them to join GBMC as employees from day one. “This approach not only strengthens our nursing team but also creates opportunities for these individuals and their families that might not have been possible otherwise,” adds Jill.

Welcoming Nurses with Care and Community

Bringing international nurses to GBMC requires more than just signing contracts. “Many of these nurses arrive with nothing,” explains Claire Cafirma, DNP, RN, CNOR, Director of Perioperative, Interventional Radiology, and Endoscopy. “They’re starting from scratch in a new country, so we’ve built a support system to make their transition as smooth as possible.”

GBMC’s Welcome Committee, spearheaded by Claire and supported by Jenny Coldiron, Senior Vice President of Philanthropy and Marketing, as well as philanthropists, provides essential support. This includes gift baskets, Nearly New Sale gift cards, and household items like beds and kitchen sets, often donated by staff. Managers and colleagues have gone above and beyond, offering rides, helping set up apartments, and introducing nurses to community resources. The effort has fostered a tight-knit community, complete with a Facebook page for sharing information and advice.

GBMC’s international nurses have also brought their families into the fold. For instance, one nurse’s son is now a tech on a hospital unit; another’s spouse works in the operating room. "These nurses and their families are incredibly loyal to GBMC, and we want to ensure they feel supported and valued," says Claire.

GBMC has hosted events and holiday gatherings to foster fellowship and build connections.

Celebrating the Impact

As GBMC’s international nursing program grows, its impact on our organization and the nurses themselves is undeniable. From filling hard-to-staff night shifts to bringing unparalleled dedication to patient care, these professionals have become invaluable members of our team.

“We’re not just filling positions,” Claire says. “We’re building a community, and we’re creating opportunities for individuals who have chosen to share their talents with us.”

Jill adds, “Peers play such a vital role in supporting the success of our international nurses. We are so grateful to to those who have welcomed our international nurses, served and mentors and preceptors, and helped find the best fit for each individual to help them thrive at GBMC. We also couldn't have done this without the support of our leaders like Jenny and our Chief Nursing Officer, Angie Feurer, as well as the philanthropists who believe in this work."