Geriatric Medicine - Dignity Health Medical Group - Bakersfield, CA

In geriatric care, we focus on the health and well-being of older adults, addressing medical, functional and emotional needs that may change with aging. This specialized care focuses on how changes in the body over time affect your health, function and independence. Your care is built based on prevention, expert chronic condition management, and the preservation of independence and quality of life. 

Geriatric medicine specialists collaborate closely with patients and their families to develop personalized care plans, ensuring safe, respectful and coordinated support throughout the aging process. We understand your changing needs and tailor our services to meet you where you are. 

Our care includes:

• General well visits
• Home health care
• Mental health care
• Risk assessments

Geriatric care helps manage common age-related conditions such as memory changes, dementia, arthritis, osteoporosis, balance problems, chronic pain and other ongoing medical conditions. It also focuses on medication management, fall prevention and support with daily activities. Care plans are individualized and designed to align with your health goals and overall well-being.

Our primary care team includes family medicine physicians, nurse practitioners (NPs) and physician assistants (PAs). They’re focused on building long-term relationships with you and your family. We treat acute illnesses, help manage chronic conditions and focus on prevention and education to support your overall health.

An advanced practice provider (APP) is a health care professional who has advanced education and clinical training, allowing them to take on a broader scope of practice and perform tasks traditionally carried out by physicians. This category includes nurse practitioners (NPs), physician assistants (PAs), certified nurse midwives (CNMs) and clinical nurse specialists (CNSs).

These professionals play a crucial role in providing health care services, including diagnosing and treating medical conditions, prescribing medications and offering preventive care. APPs are essential members of health care teams, contributing to the delivery of comprehensive and accessible patient care.

Geriatric care may be helpful when an older adult is managing multiple medical conditions, experiencing memory changes, experiencing frequent falls or having difficulty with daily activities. It can also provide support after a hospital stay or during changes in health or living situations. Early geriatric care can improve coordination, safety and long-term health outcomes.

Geriatric care recognizes the important role families and caregivers play. Care teams educate, guide and support caregivers in understanding conditions, treatments and next steps.  Geriatric doctors work in partnership with patients and caregivers to support thoughtful, compassionate care that respects each person’s values and preferences. This collaborative approach helps ensure care decisions reflect the patient’s needs, goals and dignity.

Most health insurance plans, including Medicare, cover geriatric care services when they are medically necessary. Coverage may vary based on the type of visit and services provided. Our care team can help verify insurance coverage, explain benefits and answer questions before scheduling an appointment.

At Geriatric Medicine – Dignity Health Medical Group, we have a language line to assist all non-English-speaking patients. This language and interpretation service is free of charge and available throughout the year.