6th Edition of World Nursing Science Conference 2026

Abstract

The global healthcare landscape is rapidly evolving with the expansion of telehealth technologies. This study examined telehealth implementation in a technologically advanced and culturally diverse setting by exploring the experiences of Overseas Filipino Nurses. Specifically, it aimed to identify the cultural and communication challenges encountered in virtual care delivery and the strategies used to overcome these barriers, with the broader goal of informing quality improvement initiatives in the Philippine healthcare system. A qualitative descriptive design was employed. Nine Filipino telehealth nurses based in the United States—five registered nurses and four nurse practitioners—were recruited through purposive sampling. Data were collected using a validated interview guide via individual, semi-structured online interviews. Thematic analysis was conducted to identify and interpret cultural and communication challenges encountered in telehealth practice. Participants reported challenges including mismatched cultural norms, language barriers, limited patient technological literacy, and preferences for culturally concordant providers. These issues contributed to reduced patient engagement, frequent reliance on interpreter- supported consultations, and decreased efficiency and accuracy in clinical assessments conducted through virtual platforms. Ultimately, cultural and communication barriers collectively undermined the quality, efficiency, and patient-centeredness of telehealth encounters. The findings underscore the need for culturally responsive training, inclusive telehealth protocols, and strengthened institutional support systems to promote equitable, culturally attuned, and high-quality virtual care—both in diverse global settings and within the Philippine healthcare system.