Charlee Flores, a registered nurse at Toronto General Hospital, was pleased to see accurate portrayals of Filipina nurses in recent TV shows. HBO Max’s medical drama “The Pitt” and NBC’s comedy series “St. Denis Medical” showcased Filipino nurses, resonating with Flores’ own experiences. “The Pitt” received multiple Emmy nominations and wins, featuring Filipino nurses in its opening scene.
Statistics show that although Filipinos make up 2.6% of Canada’s population, they represent a significant portion of immigrant nurses and health-care workers. In the U.S., Filipinos account for 4% of registered nurses, despite being only 1% of the population. Previous medical series like “ER” and “Grey’s Anatomy” lacked Filipino nurse representation, but shows like “The Pitt” and “St. Denis Medical” are changing the narrative.
These shows have brought attention to the Filipino community, with storylines like the “Filipino Mafia” on “St. Denis Medical” resonating with Filipino nurses. The representation of Filipino nurses as hardworking and resilient professionals has been well-received by the community. Filipino health-care workers in North America often seek these careers to support their families, with limited opportunities back home.
The industry’s growing representation of Filipino nurses is seen as long overdue by experts and community members alike. The accurate portrayal of Filipino characters in leadership roles and as fully developed individuals is considered essential for inspiring future generations. The inclusion of diverse backgrounds and stories on screen is crucial for fostering understanding and appreciation for different cultures.