With a career spanning over two decades in nursing, he has dedicated himself to advancing patient care, fostering professional growth, and advocating for equitable healthcare policies. Dr. Patrick Simon Soria made history in 2024 as the first Filipino American appointed to the Minnesota Board of Nursing by Governor Tim Walz. Currently, he serves as an Assistant Clinical Nurse Manager at Abbott Northwestern Hospital and holds adjunct faculty positions in two Master’s programs, where he shares his expertise and passion with the next generation of nursing professionals.
From his early days in the Philippines, Dr. Soria was deeply inspired by the core values of compassion, resilience, and adaptability that are hallmarks of Filipino culture. Reflecting on his decision to pursue the Global Nurse Consultant certification, he explains, “The decision to pursue the Global Nurse Consultant certification was rooted in my passion for enhancing global healthcare delivery and elevating the Filipino nurse’s presence on the world stage. As a Filipino nurse, I have seen firsthand how our unique values—compassion, resilience, and adaptability—resonate within healthcare systems worldwide.” This certification, for him, is not merely a personal achievement; it represents a platform to shape policies, improve care delivery, and promote cross-cultural understanding on an international level. Dr. Soria envisions that by breaking down barriers and elevating the profile of Filipino nurses, he can help ensure that Filipino nurses become recognized leaders in the global healthcare community.
His Filipino heritage has been a constant source of strength and inspiration throughout his career. “My Filipino heritage has significantly shaped my nursing practice. The Filipino culture is deeply rooted in compassion, resilience, and service, which are fundamental to my approach as a nurse leader, educator, and advocate,” he states. Through initiatives such as the Welcome Kabayan Program, which he initiated through the Philippine Nurses Association of Central Minnesota, Dr. Soria has provided mentorship, professional guidance, and cultural integration support for internationally educated Filipino nurses and their families. This initiative not only strengthens the Filipino nursing workforce in Minnesota but also enriches the broader healthcare system with diverse perspectives and expertise. Moreover, his role on the Governor’s Equitable Healthcare Taskforce enables him to advocate for Asian American and Pacific Islander communities, ensuring that these historically underrepresented voices are heard in critical healthcare decision-making.
Dr. Soria also addresses the significant opportunities and challenges faced by Filipino nurses in the global healthcare arena. He notes, “Filipino nurses have immense opportunities in the global healthcare arena, particularly in leadership roles, policy-making, and specialized care. Many countries recognize our skill set and work ethic, which creates opportunities in regions experiencing nursing shortages. However, challenges remain, such as the recognition of our credentials, language barriers, and ensuring fair compensation and better working conditions.” These challenges, he believes, are surmountable through continuous professional development, networking, and a commitment to excellence. His advice to Filipino nurses aspiring to excel in global roles is clear and empowering: “Be proactive in seeking continuous professional development and certifications. Take advantage of international opportunities, network with colleagues globally, and engage in educational exchanges. The global healthcare community values cultural competence, and Filipino nurses are uniquely equipped to provide compassionate, culturally sensitive care.”
For Dr. Soria, the Global Nurse Consultant certification is a stepping stone toward creating a more inclusive and impactful healthcare environment. “With my Global Nurse Consultant certification, I aim to drive initiatives that promote inclusivity and leadership among Filipino nurses globally. By sharing our expertise and knowledge, I envision Filipino nurses taking a more prominent role in international nursing leadership, influencing health policy and research, and contributing to healthcare systems that prioritize cultural competence and holistic care.” This vision is underpinned by his belief in the transformative power of education, collaboration, and advocacy.
Dr. Soria’s message to the global Filipino nursing community is one of encouragement and unity. “To the Filipino nursing community worldwide, I encourage you to embrace international opportunities and never underestimate the impact you can make. Your skills, empathy, and resilience are valued across the globe, and through professional development and collaboration, we can advance not only the nursing profession but the quality of care worldwide. Together, we can ensure that Filipino nurses continue to play an integral role in shaping the future of healthcare globally.” His words serve as a call to action, inspiring Filipino nurses to leverage their cultural strengths and professional expertise to achieve excellence and foster positive change.
Dr. Patrick Soria’s journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, cultural pride, and visionary leadership. From his roots in the Philippines to his influential roles in Minnesota’s healthcare system, his story is one of determination and impact. Through his dedication to advancing global healthcare and promoting inclusivity, Dr. Soria not only elevates the Filipino nurse’s presence on the international stage but also paves the way for future generations of nurse leaders.
