Like many hospitals across the country, Saint Mary’s has felt the ongoing strain of the national nursing shortage. In response, the hospital has continued to build multiple pipelines to support staffing needs—one of which includes the recruitment of internationally trained nurses. 

This fall, Saint Mary’s proudly welcomed Ryan Cabutad, RN, as the newest member of its Med-Surg team. Originally from the Philippines, Ryan is part of a growing international workforce of highly trained, compassionate caregivers bringing their skills and dedication to hospitals across the United States. 

His journey to Russellville was marked by determination and patience. For nearly three years, Ryan navigated the U.S. immigration and credentialing process—an effort he says was well worth it. 

“From the very beginning, I chose nursing because of my deep passion for healthcare and my desire to make a difference in people’s lives,” he shared. “Now, as I begin this new chapter of my life in a new organization and country, I believe Saint Mary’s offers the ideal environment to practice compassionate, high-standard nursing while continuing to grow both personally and professionally.” 

Ryan is part of a long tradition of international nurses at Saint Mary’s. Earlier this year, Flora Owens, another Filipino nurse, retired after 53 years of service at the hospital. Though Ryan never met Flora, he’s already heard her name and story. 

“I was introduced to her sister, Crispina, who also works here as a surgical nurse. I found Flora’s story very inspiring. It’s amazing to know that someone from my home country built such a meaningful legacy at this hospital. It gives me something to look up to,” he said. 

Adjusting to life in Russellville has come with its own learning curve, but Ryan has found the town’s natural beauty and welcoming people a source of comfort. 

“At first, it was a little tough to settle in, but it’s been more bearable because Russellville reminds me of home. There’s fresh air, lakes, nature parks, and people have been very kind,” he said. 

Professionally, Ryan has embraced the differences between nursing in the Philippines and here in the U.S.—noting the emphasis on patient safety, use of technology like Omnicell and Meditech EMR, and clearly defined nurse-to-patient ratios. But it’s the people who have made the biggest impact so far. 

During his orientation on the Med-Surg unit, Ryan was guided by preceptors Bessie Millsap, Patricia Smith, and Brittany Green, who each brought their own strengths and encouragement. He also credits Med-Tele Director Cherie Doney for her continued check-ins and support. 

“I really feel like I’m part of a family here. Even the Chief Nursing Officer, Carolyn Cook, takes time to check on how I’m doing. That means a lot.” 

“We are so excited to have Ryan on our team,” said Carolyn Cook, Chief Nursing Officer at Saint Mary’s. “He brings a strong clinical foundation, a compassionate approach to care, and a sincere desire to grow in this new environment. International nurses like Ryan are a vital part of our team, and we’re grateful for the commitment and fresh perspectives they bring.” 

As he looks ahead, Ryan says he’s most excited to keep growing as a nurse and continue building a life in Russellville. 

“Saint Mary’s already feels like home. I’m proud to be here and I hope to be part of this community for many years to come.” 

He also hopes the community sees the value international nurses offer. 

“We come here with purpose. We are dedicated, well-trained, and eager to be part of the team. I’m here to give the best care I can to every patient, and to support my coworkers, just like they’ve supported me.”