Adventist Health Bakersfield launches its first ever Physician Residency Program

Kern County faces a significant shortage of primary care providers, leaving many local residents with limited access to healthcare. With only 39 primary care doctors per 100,000 people, compared to 64 in the Bay Area, too many community members are forced to seek treatment in emergency rooms for routine medical issues. The launch of the Internal Medicine Physician Residency Program at Adventist Health Bakersfield is a crucial step in addressing this need for local doctors and ensuring better healthcare for our region. 

The residency program will train and retain new physicians dedicated to serving Kern County, helping to improve access to primary and specialized care. The first cohort of four residents begin training in June 2025, marking an important milestone in medical education and community health. 

During their three-year residency, these physicians will rotate through various departments and specialties at Adventist Health Bakersfield, gaining hands-on experience in both hospital and clinic settings. Their presence will help facilitate and provide consistent, high-quality care to more community members. 

This program is more than just a medical training initiative, it is a game-changer for healthcare in Kern County. By bringing in new physicians and equipping them with the skills to serve our community, we are not only expanding access to care but also shaping the future of local medicine. The impact of this program extends beyond the hospital walls, laying the foundation for a stronger, healthier region. 

Launching this residency program is just the beginning. We envision expanding opportunities to include rural and specialty medical training tracks, ensuring that even more communities benefit from high-quality healthcare. The possibilities are endless as we take this transformative step toward a healthier future for Kern County.