Like most Filipino nurses working abroad, May Parsons knows that life in the healthcare industry involves significant dedication and personal sacrifice. Despite the challenges, it’s a career path rich in rewards and fulfillment – and for some professionals who reach high enough, opportunities abound.
One such opportunity came when May was chosen to administer the world’s very first COVID-19 vaccine in December 2020 at the peak of the global pandemic. This achievement, she recognized, was built on decades of perseverance and a lifelong commitment to service.
Through May, this monumental moment gave a glimpse of hope during one of the darkest periods of the 21st century, resonating with millions globally. In recognition of her extraordinary service, the late Queen Elizabeth II awarded May with the George Cross — the highest civilian honor in the UK, making her the first and only Filipino to receive this prestigious award.
Throughout her career, spanning two decades in the National Health Service (NHS), May has served as a shining example of Filipino healthcare professionals’ compassion, skill, and work ethic. She credits her fluency in medical English as a key factor that enabled her to provide exceptional care and develop her skills to take on leadership roles and excel in dynamic international healthcare settings.
Now, as a global ambassador for OET, May shares her inspirational story to inspire fellow Filipino healthcare workers. She encourages them to hone their communication abilities and achieve their dreams and potential on the global stage.
As the provider of the leading English language test designed specifically for healthcare, OET has set the global benchmark for workplace medical English. Hundreds of thousands of healthcare professionals in more than 100 countries have benefited from OET, equipping them with world-class language expertise that aligns with international standards.
“I want to encourage healthcare professionals to be equipped with the foundational skills, like language mastery, for a fulfilling career wherever it takes you. Having excellent command of medical English can open new doors of opportunities on the global stage while allowing healthcare workers to connect deeper with their patients and deliver impeccable care,” said May.
Partnering with OET, May aims to spotlight opportunities for Filipino talent by championing the importance of English proficiency in healthcare. This initiative aims to bridge cultural barriers and help healthcare professionals realize their true potential in delivering high-quality healthcare services globally.
At the recent launch of OET’s partnerships with healthcare organizations in the Philippines, themed: ‘Advancing Healthcare Communication in the Philippines: OET’s Role in Enabling Collaboration,’ company leaders underscored its mission to empower healthcare professionals. They spoke to OET’s latest collaborations with the Philippine Nurses Association (PNA), Dr. Carl Balita Group of Companies, and various Philippine universities to equip Filipino healthcare workers with world-class language skills and career opportunities.
“At OET, our passion is empowering people to realize their dreams through the power of language,” said Sujata Stead, OET’s CEO. “We know improving English skills is about more than getting the scores they need on a test – it enables healthcare professionals to make meaningful human connections with the patients and communities they serve and build the lives they desire.”
These partnerships are set to undertake initiatives to elevate medical English training, enhance nurse recruitment and retention, spotlight Filipino healthcare expertise, and expand access to communication skills. The goal is to empower workers at all stages to thrive here and abroad.
“Communication is the heart of healthcare – it’s how we understand patients and provide comfort in difficult times,” said Krizelle Kilicaslan of OET. “Equipping healthcare professionals at all levels with strong medical English skills allows them to connect on a human level and deliver care that changes lives.”
Through partnerships across the healthcare ecosystem, OET and all its partners are elevating communication excellence and medical English standards while expanding access to training.
If you are a Filipino nurse or healthcare provider interested in advancing your career and enhancing communication skills, you are invited to join the OET fairs. Learn how OET can help elevate your career and hear expert advice from OET partners May Parsons and the Dr. Carl Balita Review Centre.
Events are held across Luzon:
● Manila – December 2, (1:00 PM-5:00 PM), Philippine Nurses Association Inc.
● Quezon City – December 3, (9:30 AM-12:00 PM), Trinity University of Asia
● Pampanga – December 4, (9:30 AM-12:00 PM), University of the Assumption Domus Mariae
Join the OET fairs to get a chance to win a free OET Test! Click here to register.