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Dignity Health Medical Network - Central California

Here to keep you and your family happy and healthy.

Physician directories – Central California (formerly GEMCare)

*Lists subject to change, credentialed providers listed. Participation in some health plan products is limited.

Serving Kern County with Excellence Since 1991

 Dignity Health Medical Network - Central California (DHMN-CC) began as GEMCare, an Independent Practice Association (IPA) founded by a group of 10 primary care physicians and three specialists. These forward-thinking physicians recognized the need for additional health care options in Kern County and collaborated to establish a new network. This initiative allowed them to partner with California’s major health plans to provide greater access to quality care.

Today, DHMN-CC proudly serves over 40,000 members across Bakersfield, Delano, Lake Isabella, Taft, and Tehachapi. The network has grown significantly, now including more than 150 primary care physicians and over 300 specialists. From its humble beginnings with just 50 members in 1992, DHMN-CC remains committed to delivering compassionate, patient-centered care tailored to the needs of Kern County residents.

 

Supporting Providers with Advanced Management Soluctions

Dignity Health Management Services Organization (DHMSO), a member of CommonSpirit Health, is a leading provider of health care management solutions. With a focus on improving clinical outcomes, DHMSO leverages innovative tools and technology to empower health care providers and payers.

DHMSO offers comprehensive administrative and clinical support services designed to meet the needs of organizations managing medical services under health plan agreements or benefit programs. These services support hospitals, independent physician networks, medical groups, and employers, enabling them to focus on delivering exceptional care while navigating the complexities of modern health care.

 

Committed to Your Health and Well-Being

At Dignity Health Medical Network – Central California, we are dedicated to delivering excellence in health care every day. A cornerstone of our commitment is listening to you—truly understanding your needs and ensuring that you feel informed and empowered to make the best decisions for your health.

No matter what stage of life you’re in, we are here to support you, providing compassionate care and guidance to help you live life to its fullest. Your health is our priority, and we are honored to be your partner on your wellness journey.

No Surprises Act

The No Surprises Act protects consumers who get coverage through their employer (including a federal, state, or local government), through the Health Insurance Marketplace®, or directly through an individual health plan.

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Health care decision-making process defined

We believe in making quality medical decisions in a fair manner.

  • Utilization Management decision-making is based only on the appropriateness of care and service and the existence of coverage

  • The organization does not specifically reward practitioners or other individuals for issuing denials of coverage

  • Financial incentives for Utilization Management decision-makers do not encourage decisions that result in underutilization.

    The criteria, guidelines, and benefits used to make utilization determinations are available upon request by calling (661) 716-7100, (800) 414-5860, or faxing to (661)716-9200. If calling after hours, please leave a voice mail message.  We will return your call the next business day.

Find us for your health care needs.

IMG / Dignity Health Medical Network in Kern and Tulare counties is here to help keep you and your family healthy.

Please call our toll-free numbers for more information:
(800) 918-7302 for Medi-Cal
(800) 414-5860 for Commercial & Medicare

TTY/TTD Members should call 711

We're located at 1600 D Street, in Bakersfield.

Open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, excluding holidays

If calling after hours, please leave a voice mail message and we will return your call the following business day.

 

  • Hello Healthy podcast

    Hello Healthy podcast is an audio series presented by Dignity Health. The series features health-related topics from our experts at:

    • Mercy & Memorial Hospitals (Bakersfield)

    • Mercy Medical Center (Merced)

    • St. Joseph's Medical Center (Stockton)


    Search by health topic or physician name to find informative and interesting episodes.

     

    Listen now
  • COVID-19 resources

    Our priority at Dignity Health Medical Network remains the safety and well-being of our members and the communities in which we live. Certain behavior changes can help prevent the spread of coronavirus in our communities. Take a look at our list of simple actions you can use to protect yourself and others.

    Get more info

Our hospital network

Central California locations

Frequently asked questions

A primary care physician (PCP) is a doctor you select under your health insurance plan to be your personal physician. A PCP can be specialized in family practice, general practice, or pediatrics. The relationship you have with your PCP is very important because he/she is responsible for managing all aspects of your care. Your PCP is responsible for referring you to specialty physicians.

When you choose a primary care physician, you also choose his/her medical group. A medical group is formed when primary care physicians come together to contract with health plans and serve the community. These physicians have contracted with specialist physicians, hospitals, and other health care providers to form a network.

 

In case of an emergency situation, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.  If your situation is not emergent and your primary care physician’s office is open, call the physician’s office directly for advice. Otherwise, visit one of our contracted urgent care centers.

You may change your PCP by calling DHMN Customer Service at 716-7100 and/or calling the toll-free number listed on your health plan ID card.

You may contact DHMN Customer Service at 716-7100 or contact your health plan. It is your responsibility to know your benefits.

It is extremely important that the information on your card be correct. If you note any errors, contact your health plan immediately to correct the information. Remember to make sure your physician has a copy of your ID card.

The care you need is just a phone call away.

Have a question about insurance? Want to know about wellness events happening around town? Give us a call at (661) 716-7100, and someone from our office will be able to assist you.