For South Bakersfield residents, students, and families, accessing healthcare resources has just become easier with the introduction of a Kern Medical Mobile Office. The office will be available every Monday from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. and Friday from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the Greenfield Family Resource Center.
According to Crystal Figueroa-Nelson, the Greenfield Union School District (GUSD) Public Information Officer, this was made possible by a partnership between the Greenfield Union School District, Kern Family Healthcare, and Kern Medical to support the California Community Schools Partnership Program (CCSPP).
The CCSPP is a program designed to support schools’ efforts in partnering with community agencies and local governments to align community resources.
“So, the gist of it is, the State of California is trying to bring resources closer to our students and our communities,” stated Figueroa-Nelson.
The mobile medical unit will make healthcare more readily available to South Bakersfield residents who may face barriers such as transportation challenges, limited clinic availability, or a lack of insurance.
According to Kern Family Healthcare, this partnership supports GUSD’s mission to serve the whole child by ensuring that families have access to equitable healthcare where it’s needed most.
“This effort moves us closer to building a healthier future for every child and family in our community,” said Kern Family Healthcare.
Monday was the first day the mobile unit was operational at the Greenfield Family Resource Center, and one parent, Thea Pacheco, said the clinic is already making a difference.
“Before they set this up, I had to take the bus across town just to get my daughter to the doctor,” said Pacheco, who was bringing her seven-year-old in to be seen. “Now that it’s right here, it saves me so much time and stress.”
Pacheco said the mobile clinic’s location is convenient for her, especially as a working mom with limited transportation. She shared that she would occasionally have to miss work or reschedule her daughter’s appointments.
“Having this here means I don’t have to choose between my job and my child’s health,” stated Pacheco.
The Mobile Medical Office services include vaccinations, preventative screenings, and health education, along with other vital services. It was funded by grants from both the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and Kern Family Healthcare, allowing Kern Medical to serve underserved communities directly.
Natalie Diaz was also visiting the mobile clinic on Monday with her young son and said that before this, she had struggled to access care in the past.
“The fact that doctors are coming here shows that our community matters,” said Diaz. “It feels like someone is finally paying attention to us.”
Diaz also commented that she hopes the mobile clinic continues to expand its hours and services so more families can benefit from them being there.
