Team Members in AdventHealth’s Transcultural Assimilation Program Foster Connection and Growth for International Nurses

Linda Casimir, a global mobility specialist at AdventHealth, works alongside her team to bring AdventHealth’s Transcultural Assimilation Program (TAP) to life with a heart of love and joy. She plays a crucial role in creating a seamless and welcoming experience for international nurses like JohnPaul (JP) Bautista as they begin the onboarding process to become AdventHealth team members.

AdventHealth’s TAP initiative serves as a gateway for international nurses to transition and assimilate into the U.S. culture and health care system. Through this comprehensive four-week program, new international hires embark on a pathway to success, enhancing their personal and professional growth.

When Bautista arrived in the U.S. from the Philippines, he said he initially experienced uncertainty and anxiety but quickly found himself surprised by the immediate care shown by Casimir and several others who facilitated the TAP experience.

“The first time I met Linda, she hugged me,” said Bautista. “From then on, I felt welcomed and at ease that I had not made a mistake in coming here.”

Casimir’s goal is to create a positive experience for new international nurses and their families. Her passion to offer spiritual care to others has earned her the trust and confidence of new team members, especially during times of uncertainty.

“Spiritual care is such an important part of the new hire experience, especially for someone who finds themselves in an environment miles away from home,” said Casimir, who also serves as a Spiritual Ambassador at AdventHealth. “We do our best as a team to offer various kinds of support to our nurses.”

Yoena Usher, manager of AdventHealth’s Transcultural Assimilation Program, works closely with Casimir to provide guidance to nurses upon their arrival. She emphasizes the crucial role communication plays in making nurses feel supported before and after their completion of TAP.

“Our goal is to establish a lasting relationship with our nurses well beyond the program,” said Usher. “This ensures a smooth transition from when they first arrive and throughout their stay here in the U.S.”

Nurses serve as front-line advocates for well-being, and their ability to adapt to new challenges is paramount. The TAP initiative continues to provide international nurses with the necessary tools to grow and succeed within and outside the workplace. Throughout its evolution, the initiative’s overarching goal lies within its commitment to lifelong learning as healthcare practices, technology, and patient needs continually evolve.

Bautista, an oncology nurse at AdventHealth Winter Park, said the program has been a life-changing experience that has expanded his nursing skills and provided him with knowledge and lasting friendships. Throughout the intensive and highly valuable four-week program, he said he was able to overcome his fears and uncertainties, which motivated him to become the best nurse he could be.

“The people from the TAP initiative became my first family and friends on this side of the world,” said Bautista. “People like me who arrive here without an adequate support system are able to find companionship in a program like this.”

During Bautista’s time at AdventHealth, he’s embraced opportunities for continuous learning, enhancing professional competence and fostering a culture of innovation and excellence within the health care community.

“Trusting in God’s plan has allowed me to better prepare for the future and work hard for my dreams as a nurse,” he said. “Trust me, His plans and generosities are bountiful when we trust in Him.”