Filipino Nurses Remain A Trusted US Health Worker

LOS ANGELES, California — The Philippine Nurses Association of America (PNAA) is urging the public to avoid unfairly judging the Filipino nurses based on isolated cases.

The statement came in the wake of earlier reports that Federal prosecutors in Texas indicted Filipina-American nurse practitioner Marizel Cambri Yukee for her alleged role in a massive $906 million Medicare and TRICARE fraud scheme.

In a statement, PNAA president Marlon Garzo Saria, said they acknowledge the recent announcement by the U.S. Department of Justice regarding the charging of more than 450 individuals, including physicians and nurse practitioners, in connection with large-scale healthcare fraud schemes.

"We are deeply concerned by the magnitude of the alleged offenses and the reported harm caused to patients and public trust in the healthcare system," the PNAA official said.

Authorities alleged her clinics billed government programs for medically unnecessary tissue grafts, and that she laundered proceeds into luxury goods and a beach resort in the Philippines.

"We recognize that one individual identified in the report is of Filipino descent. While such cases may draw attention to the nationality or background of those involved, we urge the public to avoid generalizations that unfairly impact an entire community," he said.

But, the PNAA official pointed out that the legacy of Filipino American nurses is defined by decades of outstanding service and compassionate care in the most demanding medical settings, including public health and underserved areas.

"Filipino American nurses have a long and well-documented history of exemplary service, leadership, and dedication across all sectors of healthcare, often serving in the most critical settings, including underserved communities, acute care, and public health," he said.

Saria also emphasized that "As an organization that represents over 150,000 Filipino American nurses across the United States, PNAA firmly upholds the highest standards of professional ethics, integrity, and accountability. Any actions that violate these principles are inconsistent with the core values of the nursing profession and the mission we collectively stand for: compassionate, safe, and evidence-based care for all."

For decades, he said Filipino nurses have been trusted frontline caregivers in the United States. "They have played an essential role in advancing patient care quality, driving health system resilience, and contributing significantly during times of crisis, including the COVID-19 pandemic. The overwhelming majority continue to demonstrate professionalism, cultural competence, and unwavering commitment to ethical practice."

Amidst these fraudulent practices by some individuals, PNAA said they would remain steadfast in promoting accountability within the profession while also advocating for fairness and respect toward all healthcare workers.

"We support efforts that strengthen oversight, transparency, and safeguards within healthcare systems to protect patients and maintain the integrity of care delivery," he said.

"To the Filipino American community, we encourage continued pride in our collective contributions and vigilance in upholding the values that define us as nurses. To the public, we reaffirm that the actions of a few do not reflect the character or conduct of the many who dedicate their lives to healing and service," he added.

According to Saria, "we will continue to collaborate with regulatory bodies, healthcare organizations, and our members to reinforce ethical standards, support professional development, and ensure that Filipino nurses remain a trusted and valued pillar of the U.S. healthcare workforce."