SEAPCI to Support Munson Healthcare’s Expansion with Filipino Nurses

Munson Healthcare has unveiled plans to recruit up to 200 nurses from the Philippines over the next three years to address critical staffing needs. This initiative aims to strengthen their team, particularly at Munson Medical Center in Traverse City, with a focus on orthopedics, post-surgical care, and telemetry.

Telemetry nurses, who monitor and manage patients needing continuous cardiac and vital sign observation, will play a crucial role in this expansion. Munson’s Chief Nursing Officer, Jennifer Standfest, emphasized that the nursing shortage, exacerbated by the pandemic, is a nationwide issue. “This international recruitment strategy is a vital step in addressing the shortage,” she stated, highlighting the benefits of incorporating skilled, certified nurses from the Philippines into their team.

Currently, Munson Healthcare has 230 nursing positions open, with 75% of these at the Traverse City center. To support this effort, Munson will collaborate with Southeast Asian Placement Center, Inc. (SEAPCI), known for its expertise in recruiting Filipino healthcare professionals. SEAPCI, founded in 1971, has a proven track record with major healthcare institutions including Johns Hopkins and Henry Ford Health System.

A team from Munson will visit the Philippines in November to meet prospective hires who meet their rigorous standards. Filipino nurses, known for their proficiency in English and high-quality training, will be crucial in this recruitment drive.

To facilitate their transition, incoming nurses will undergo comprehensive training and onboarding at Munson, aligning with their care standards. They will also receive competitive compensation and benefits. Addressing housing challenges, Munson is working with local providers to find suitable accommodation for these new recruits, fostering a supportive environment for their integration into the Traverse City community.

The recruitment strategy has been positively received by local nurses, who see it as a valuable solution to staffing shortages. Munson’s recent contract negotiations, which include significant wage increases and improved staffing guidelines, reflect their commitment to both new and existing staff members.

As Munson Healthcare implements this plan, SEAPCI remains dedicated to delivering exceptional nursing talent to support their mission of providing excellent patient care.

A recruitment event will be held in November to further facilitate this hiring process. Apply now to join the team!

Source: This article is based on an article from Record Eagle, a local news source in Traverse City, Michigan.

Cover Image Credit: Munson Healthcare Facebook page