Family Medicine Residency

Welcome to the Family Medicine Residency Program at Kern Medical Center in Bakersfield, California!

A message from our Program Director:

As an inaugural residency program, we are honored and deeply excited to embark on this meaningful journey, one that represents not only the beginning of a new program but the foundation of a lasting legacy in training compassionate, skilled, and community-focused physicians.

Family Medicine is a uniquely comprehensive specialty that spans the full spectrum of care. It encompasses preventive medicine, chronic disease management, acute care, behavioral health, and continuity of care across all ages, genders, and stages of life. Family physicians serve as trusted advocates for their patients, building lifelong relationships while addressing the physical, emotional, and social factors that influence health.

At Kern Medical, Family Medicine shapes who we are. It teaches us to approach each patient with empathy, cultural humility, and a commitment to whole-person care. It challenges us to think broadly, act thoughtfully, and lead with purpose. As we grow together, our program is dedicated to fostering an environment of collaboration, innovation, and excellence; preparing our residents to meet the evolving needs of the communities they serve.

We are proud to begin this journey and look forward to shaping the future of Family Medicine, together!

Dr. Santhi Kanuri, M.D

Family Medicine Program Director