Kern Medical UME Program 2024

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KERN MEDICAL

MEDICAL EDUCATION

Family Medicine in partnership with the Rio Bravo Family Medicine Residency Program A UCLA-Affiliated Family Medicine Residency and Teaching Health Center, Sponsored by Clinica Sierra Vista

Life in Bakersfield Why choose Bakersfield? Most will tell you the quality of life in Kern County has much to offer anyone looking for an affordable and attractive place to live. Located just two hours north of Los Angeles, two hours east of the Central Coast, and a short drive away from majestic mountain ranges, living in Kern County offers a California lifestyle that residents can afford to enjoy and is family-friendly. Kern County is home to approximately 917,550 people, and 392,756 or 43% of those living in Bakersfield. Bakersfield is the ninth largest city in California and enjoys both age and ethnic diversity. In fact, Bakersfield’s population growth was ranked as the fastest-growing city in California by the California Department of Finance. Kern County is the second most affordable housing market in California, making it the ideal location to go to school, launch a career and start a family. In fact, Kern County has ranked #3 in the nation for millennial home ownership, and is #8 in the nation where your salary goes the furthest. Kern also ranks #3 among large U.S. metros for the most diversified economies, with a mix of industry clusters that includes oil and gas, aerospace and defense, agriculture, and healthcare. With metropolitan conveniences, natural attractions and recreational amenities, Bakersfield is ranked as one of the “Most Fun Cities in America” based on entertainment, recreation, nightlife, and costs. Yet, Bakersfield has maintained a small-town feel with cultural and historical traditions residents cherish, and attracts new residents each year.

The Family Medicine rotation offers valuable experience in both the ambulatory and inpatient settings, and is administered at two clinical sites. East Niles Community Health Center, where the Rio Bravo Family Medicine Residency Program is located, is the main clinic where students participate in providing comprehensive outpatient care. When patients require hospitalization, they are admitted to Kern Medical so we can provide the best continuity of care. These clinical sites provide ample opportunity for students to acquire an understanding of the unique role of Family Medicine and its importance in the context of the community’s overall health and well-being. Students learn through direct clinical experience, combined with dedicated didactic time and structured learning activities, working alongside residents and their preceptors. Great program, with a healthy working environment and support from residents and attendings. The patient population is also amazing. – Harendra I., Medical Student The residents were very engaging and loved taking time to teach. Everyone was very supportive and it was a very conducive atmosphere to learn from. – Patrick D., Medical Student The clinic staff, residents, and attendings were very approachable – Diversity of patient pathology as well as full spectrum FM practice (Ob/Gyn, MSK, POCUS, Peds, Geriatrics…) – Li L., Medical Student

WHY DO PEOPLE CHOOSE TO PUT DOWN ROOTS HERE?

• Cultural experiences that include natural history museums, art museums, and zoos • Musical theatre, concert venues, and the Bakersfield Symphony Orchestra • University and college sports, professional hockey, auto racing, and recreational sports leagues for children and adults • Water activities in nearby lakes and rivers that provide sailing, fishing, boating, rafting, kayaking, and water skiing • Excellent local golf courses and country clubs • Over 170 miles of bike trails and paths • Home to state and national parks for hiking and camping • A benevolent community, hosting more than 320 local non-profit organizations