Dr. Leah Samaco-Paquiz, RN is a testament to the potential impact of combining expertise in politics and healthcare. As a former legislator and a current member of the Board of Nursing in the Philippines, Dr. Samaco Paquiz has dedicated her career to improving the quality of healthcare for her fellow Filipinos. Her tireless efforts have not gone unnoticed. She was recently informed that she will receive the prestigious Kim Mo Im Policy Innovation and Impact Award at the International Council of Nurses (ICN) Congress in Montreal, Canada, in July 2023.
Dr. Samaco-Paquiz accomplishments are numerous and significant. As a former member of the Philippine House of Representatives, she was instrumental in the passage of the Philippine Nursing Act of 2002, which sought to regulate and improve the nursing profession in the country. As a member of the Board of Nursing, she has continued to work towards enhancing the education, training, and competency of nurses in the Philippines. Her leadership and advocacy have also been instrumental in improving the working conditions and benefits of Filipino nurses, who have long been undervalued and overworked. The Kim Mo Im Policy Innovation and Impact Award is a highly esteemed honor in the nursing community, recognizing individuals who have made significant contributions to healthcare policy and practice.
In a world where healthcare remains a pressing concern, individuals like Dr. Samaco-Paquiz serve as beacons of hope, showing that significant change is possible with hard work, dedication, and a commitment to improving the lives of others. Dr. Samaco-Paquiz's recognition with the Kim Mo Im Policy Innovation and Impact Award is a testament to the importance and impact of her work and an inspiration for others to follow in her footsteps.