Kern Medical New Associate Orientation Guide

Safety Net Health System

Kern Medical remains as a safety net health system. A safety net health system provides healthcare to anyone in the community, regardless of insurance status or ability to pay. We provide care to low-income, uninsured and vulnerable populations.

Population Served

Kern County, our workforce and our patient population are culturally diverse. Kern Medical proudly offers 45 specialty services including trauma, psychiatric and neonatal care.

When providing care, treatment and services in a healthcare setting to this diverse and often vulnerable population, you should be sensitive to the following in your interactions:

Insurance Status

Access to medical care and medication may be a challenge (uninsured). Our patient’s may need help in navigating our systems. Case Management and Pharmacy are good resources.

Cultural Differences

Many cultures have beliefs in traditional healers such as Curanderos (Mexico and much of Latin America), Santeria (Brazil and Cuba) and Espiritismo (Puerto Rico). These beliefs need to be considered when obtaining medical information to ensure an accurate medical history is compiled.

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