2026 Community Report Celebrating Milestones, Strengthening Community
Dear Community Members, Partners and Friends, As Kern Family Health Care approaches 30 years of service to Kern County, this moment invites both reflection and a renewed commitment. What began humbly in July 1996 has grown into a trusted local health plan serving almost half of Kern County residents. To this day, we do not take this responsibility lightly. Our commitment is stronger than ever. We understand that Medi-Cal exists because too many individuals and families face economic hardship. We wish these circumstances did not exist, but we are proud to serve as a reliable safety-net that provides quality health care to our community at every stage of life. Over the years, Kern Family Health Care has grown into a comprehensive health plan. Beyond medical coverage, we offer integrated services that support the whole person and improve care coordination along with health outcomes. The launch of our Medicare Dual Eligible Special Needs Plan (D-SNP) marks another important milestone in our ongoing effort to simplify and enhance the health care experience for those we serve. Compared to what we offered 30 years ago, these changes reflect how far we have come in continually strengthening care for Kern County residents. Change has been constant, and it has strengthened us. Even as the health care landscape shifts and new challenges arise, our focus remains steady. We are committed to moving forward thoughtfully and responsibly, always keeping our members at the center of every decision. None of this work is possible without the trust and partnership of our providers, community collaborators and employees. Your dedication and collaboration are essential to our success, and we appreciate the vital role you play in helping us serve Kern County with compassion and a commitment to improving the health of our members. Sincerely, Emily Duran, MS Chief Executive Officer Kern Family Health Care Kristen Beall Watson, EdD Chairwoman Governing Board A Message from Our CEO and Board Chair 1
2 Celebrating Milestones, Strengthening Community Celebrating Milestones, Strengthening Community Who We Are Building on Three Decades of Service........................3 Our Values..................................................................4 The Four Pillars of Compassionate Care.....................5 Health Coverage That Meets Community Needs........6
Building on Three Decades of Service Kern Family Health Care (KFHC) is a locally-based managed care health plan serving nearly 400,000 members across Kern County. For almost three decades, KFHC has played a critical role in expanding access to high-quality, compassionate and culturally responsive care for individuals and families throughout the region. As Kern County’s only public and local initiative health plan, KFHC works closely with an extensive network of providers, community organizations and partners to ensure members receive coordinated care and meaningful support at every stage of life. With deep roots in the community, we understand the unique health needs and challenges facing Kern County residents and remain focused on reducing disparities, strengthening prevention efforts and improving health outcomes. In 2025, KFHC continued to build on this strong foundation, marking a year of progress and readiness as the organization approaches its 30th year of service. This included expanding how we serve our community through the launch of a new Medicare Dual Eligible Special Needs Plan, extending KFHC’s reach and reinforcing its long-standing commitment to local, member-centered care. Through collaboration and innovation, and with a consistent focus on the people we serve, KFHC continues to strengthen the systems and partnerships that support a healthier Kern County today and into the years ahead. Who We Are 3 Who We Are
4 Celebrating Milestones, Strengthening Community Excellence: We hold ourselves to high standards, focusing on quality, accountability and continuous improvement in every aspect of our work. Our Values At KFHC, our values guide how we work, how we make decisions and how we serve our members and community. They are embedded in daily practice and reflected in the care, partnerships and programs we deliver across Kern County. These values remain the foundation of KFHC’s work and continue to guide the organization forward. Celebrating Milestones, Strengthening Community Equity: We are committed to ensuring every member has access to the care and support they need, recognizing individual circumstances and addressing barriers with respect and understanding. Collaboration: We believe meaningful progress is achieved through partnership. By working across teams, with providers and alongside community organizations, we strengthen outcomes and expand impact. Compassion: We lead with empathy and care, keeping people at the center of every interaction and decision. Integrity: We act with honesty and transparency, honoring the trust placed in us by members, providers, partners and the broader community. Innovation: We seek thoughtful ways to improve access, enhance quality and strengthen health care delivery throughout Kern County.
The Four Pillars of Compassionate Care At KFHC, compassionate care is delivered through four core pillars that guide how we serve, support and partner with those around us. Together, these pillars shape how care is experienced across the organization and throughout the community. Members Our members are individuals, families and neighbors who rely on KFHC for care that meets their unique needs. We listen, advocate and work to remove barriers so members feel supported, informed and confident in their care. Every effort is centered on improving the member experience and supporting healthier lives. Community Kern County is at the heart of KFHC’s work. Beyond health coverage, we partner with local organizations, schools and community leaders to address the broader factors that influence health. Through collaboration and communitybased programs, we strengthen access, close gaps and support well-being across the county. Providers Our provider network is essential to delivering accessible, high-quality care. KFHC works closely with physicians, clinics, specialists, hospitals and other health care facilities that share a commitment to equity and whole-person care. These partnerships support strong care coordination and better outcomes for members. Employees Our employees are central to KFHC’s success. Their dedication, expertise and compassion drive the organization forward each day. We are committed to fostering an inclusive, supportive workplace where employees feel valued, engaged and empowered to grow while making a meaningful difference in the community. Who We Are 5
6 Celebrating Milestones, Strengthening Community KFHC provides coordinated health coverage options designed to meet the diverse needs of Kern County residents. KFHC Medi-Cal KFHC Medi-Cal serves eligible low-income individuals and families throughout Kern County, providing access to comprehensive medical, behavioral health and community support services. Care is coordinated through a broad local network of providers and community partners, supporting whole-person care and helping members navigate the health care system with confidence. Health Coverage That Meets Community Needs KFHC Medicare (D-SNP) KFHC Medicare Dual Eligible Special Needs Plan (D-SNP) serves Kern County residents age 21 and older who have both Medicare Part A and B and Medi-Cal. The plan brings Medicare and Medi-Cal benefits together into a single, coordinated experience designed to simplify coverage and improve access to care. By aligning providers, services and benefits, KFHC’s Medicare D-SNP strengthens care coordination and supports members in managing their health with greater clarity and peace of mind.
Celebrating Milestones, Strengthening Community 7 Who We Are
8 Celebrating Milestones, Strengthening Community 2025: A YEAR OF PROGRESS AND MOMENTUM NCQA Accreditation: A National Standard Achieved..............................9 Expanding Care Through Medicare D-SNP............................................10 Strengthening Continuity of Care Through County Collaboration.........11 Preparing for What’s Next: The 2026–2028 Strategic Plan..................12
NCQA Accreditation: A National Standard Achieved Achieving both Health Plan Accreditation and Health Equity Accreditation from the National Committee for Quality Assurance marked a defining milestone in KFHC’s evolution as a high-performing, equity-centered health plan. This dual accreditation confirmed that KFHC meets rigorous, evidencebased standards across clinical care, operations and health equity, placing the organization among a select group of health plans nationwide. KFHC earned a 99 percent overall score for Health Plan Accreditation, with perfect scores across nearly every domain, including quality management, population health, utilization management, credentialing and member experience. Health Equity Accreditation results were equally strong, with 100 percent scores across all categories, recognizing KFHC’s advancement of language access, cultural responsiveness, data collection and efforts to reduce disparities in care. 2025: A Year of Progress and Momentum 9 Behind these results was a multi-year, organization-wide effort that touched every corner of KFHC. More than 12,000 hours were invested by 65 staff across 34 departments, resulting in hundreds of documented processes, analytical reports and system enhancements. Teams strengthened member outreach, improved provider engagement, expanded staff training and modernized data systems to support more consistent, equitable care delivery. This work produced meaningful, lasting improvements. Members benefit from clearer communication, stronger care coordination and more responsive services. Providers experience streamlined processes and improved collaboration. Employees now operate within a more structured, equity-centered framework that supports accountability and continuous improvement. NCQA accreditation represents more than a compliance milestone. It reflects how KFHC has grown, matured and strengthened its systems to meet national standards while remaining deeply rooted in the needs of Kern County. These accreditations now provide a strong foundation for sustaining progress and continuing to build trust with the community.
10 Celebrating Milestones, Strengthening Community Expanding into Medicare represented a natural next step in KFHC’s ability to serve members with increasingly complex needs. Designed for individuals age 21 and older who have both Medicare Part A and B and Medi-Cal, the D-SNP brings those benefits together into a single, coordinated plan, helping members with more complex health needs navigate care more seamlessly. For 29 years, KFHC served Kern County exclusively through its Medi-Cal health plan. The introduction of Medicare D-SNP marked a significant evolution, strengthening KFHC’s ability to support members across both programs and improve care coordination among providers, services and benefits. This expansion reflects the organization’s continued growth and readiness to meet members’ needs at every stage of life. The launch was supported by a comprehensive outreach and education effort during the 2025 Medicare Annual Enrollment Period. A countywide, bilingual campaign across billboards, radio, television and digital platforms helped raise awareness and ensure members had clear, accessible information about this new option. At the same time, KFHC established its first licensed Medicare sales team, equipping staff with specialized training and certifications to provide accurate guidance and personalized support throughout the enrollment process. Members who enrolled began receiving benefits in 2026. As the program moves forward, KFHC remains focused on delivering a coordinated, member-centered experience that simplifies coverage, strengthens provider collaboration and supports healthier outcomes for dual-eligible members across Kern County. Celebrating Milestones, Strengthening Community Expanding Care Through Medicare D-SNP A New Chapter in Coordinated Care
The return to pre-pandemic Medi-Cal renewal standards introduced new challenges that required close coordination and shared accountability. The change dramatically reduced automatic renewals across Kern County, increasing the number of members required to complete manual Medi-Cal redeterminations. Due to public health emergency eligibility flexibilities, nearly 80 percent of Medi-Cal members in Kern County were renewed automatically. By mid2025, that rate dropped to less than 40 percent, meaning most members now needed to complete annual renewals manually, many for the first time in more than five years. To protect continuity of care, KFHC partnered closely with Kern County Human Services to support members through the transition. Through daily data sharing and biweekly coordination with county leadership, KFHC identified members approaching renewal deadlines and those eligible for retroactive coverage during the 90-day grace period following disenrollment. KFHC launched a multi-channel outreach effort to meet members where they are, including text messages, mail, phone calls, in-person assistance and the member portal. Renewal data was shared with member-facing staff and providers to embed support across touchpoints, while partnerships with enrollment entities and community-based organizations expanded local assistance. 2025: A Year of Progress and Momentum 11 Strengthening Continuity of Care Through County Collaboration To further strengthen outreach, KFHC implemented an AI-powered phone campaign to increase contact attempts and prioritize members at highest risk of losing coverage. Additional tools at KFHC, including document-scanning kiosks and limited access to the California Statewide Automated Welfare System, helped reduce barriers and improve renewal processing. While the renewal transition presented challenges, it also underscored the strength of county collaboration. Through shared accountability and coordinated action, KFHC and Kern County Human Services helped thousands of families maintain the coverage they rely on during a period of significant change.
12 Celebrating Milestones, Strengthening Community KFHC completed the development of its 2026–2028 strategic plan, establishing a clear and disciplined roadmap for the next phase of the organization’s work. Built through a comprehensive process that included landscape analysis, board and executive engagement and cross-functional collaboration, the plan reflects both the realities of a changing health care environment and KFHC’s responsibility as Kern County’s local safety-net health plan. The planning process began with a close examination of state and federal policy trends, funding pressures, market dynamics and internal performance. Board members, executives and senior leaders contributed insights that helped define the priorities most critical to sustaining access, quality and stability in the years ahead. From there, crossdepartmental teams translated strategic direction into clear goals and measurable outcomes, ensuring the plan could be operationalized across the organization. The resulting strategy centers on four interconnected priorities: strengthening the provider network, elevating member engagement, developing and supporting a skilled workforce, and ensuring responsible financial stewardship. Together, these focus areas align resources, guide decision-making Preparing for What’s Next: The 2026–2028 Strategic Plan and reinforce the systems needed to deliver coordinated, high-quality care in an increasingly complex and competitive environment. More than a planning exercise, the 2026–2028 strategic plan now serves as the foundation for annual goals, budgeting and project selection. With systems in place to monitor progress and provide regular updates to leadership and the governing board, KFHC enters the next three years positioned to move forward with clarity, accountability and purpose, building on the momentum achieved in 2025.
2025: A Year of Progress and Momentum 13 Planning with purpose. KFHC leaders collaborate to shape the 2026–2028 Strategic Plan, aligning priorities to support long-term stability, quality and community impact.
14 Celebrating Milestones, Strengthening Community Celebrating Milestones, Strengthening Community OUR MEMBERS Who We Serve........................................................................................15 Member Experience and Satisfaction....................................................16 Bridging Barriers to Care Through Trust and Connection..................... 17 From Member to Extern: Investing in the Next Generation..................18
Who We Serve KFHC serves individuals and families across Kern County, a geographically diverse region that includes rural farming communities, mountain areas and the city of Bakersfield. Our members live and work in every part of the county, and KFHC remains committed to ensuring access to care and in-person support where it is needed most. Today, KFHC serves nearly 400,000 members, primarily through Medi-Cal, with a membership that reflects the diversity of the communities we serve. The majority of members identify as Hispanic, with additional representation across white, Black, Asian and other populations. Nearly half of KFHC members are children and young people, underscoring the organization’s role in supporting families and long-term community health. With the addition of its Medicare D-SNP, KFHC now supports members across both Medi-Cal and Medicare, strengthening continuity of care for existing members while extending services to new ones. MEMBER LANGUAGE English 68% Spanish 31% Punjabi 1% MEMBER ETHNICITY Hispanic 63% Caucasian 15% Unknown 13% Black 5% Asian Indian 2% Filipino 1% Other 1% MEMBER AGE 0–5 Years 12% 6–18 Years 30% 19–44 Years 35% 45–64 Years 17% 65+ Years 6% Our Members 15
Listening to members and responding to their feedback remains central to KFHC’s approach to care. In 2025, KFHC completed its sixth year partnering with Press Ganey to administer the CAHPS Member Satisfaction Survey, allowing for consistent benchmarking and trend analysis over time. Results reflected strong overall performance and continued improvement in areas that matter most to members. Compared to regional benchmarks, KFHC demonstrated notable gains, reinforcing trust, access and coordination of care. Key highlights from the 2025 survey include: • Overall rating of the health plan ranked in the 100th percentile regionally • Improved satisfaction with doctor communication, reflecting clearer explanations and stronger relationships • Increased scores related to care coordination, supporting continuity and navigation across services The survey also identified opportunities for continued focus, particularly related to specialist access. These insights will guide targeted improvements in 2026, including enhanced member outreach, strengthened provider collaboration and expanded benefit education. Together, these results underscore KFHC’s commitment to listening, learning and continuously improving the member experience. 16 Celebrating Milestones, Strengthening Community Member Experience and Satisfaction
Our Members 17 Bridging Barriers to Care Through Trust and Connection “Sometimes the biggest barrier isn’t the appointment itself — it’s understanding the process and feeling supported along the way. My role is to make sure members feel heard, respected and confident accessing the care they need.” — Mary Allen, KFHC member engagement representative For many KFHC members, accessing health care involves more than scheduling an appointment. Transportation challenges, language barriers and cultural differences can make navigating the system overwhelming, particularly for families in rural areas or those who must travel outside of Kern County to see specialists. KFHC’s member engagement representatives work closely with members to address these barriers through benefit education, care coordination and culturally responsive support. In one case, a family faced significant challenges due to limited English proficiency and unfamiliarity with their health care benefits. Our member engagement representative, Mary Allen, used language assistance services to ensure clear communication and walked the family through appointment details, benefits and care options. As trust grew, the family shared concerns about transportation, including preferences related to language and driver gender when traveling long distances. Mary coordinated transportation services that reflected these needs and communicated directly with the provider’s office to ensure language awareness. With this support, the family successfully attended their specialist appointment and now schedules future visits with confidence, using KFHC’s transportation services as needed. This experience reflects how KFHC removes barriers to care by meeting members where they are and supporting access in ways that respect culture, language and individual needs.
18 Celebrating Milestones, Strengthening Community Jennyfer Ochoa Espino’s connection to KFHC reflects the power of investing locally and early. A current KFHC member and high school junior at Highland High School in Bakersfield, Jennyfer participated in KFHC’s Student Summer Externship Program while exploring future career paths in health care. During her externship, Jennyfer was placed in the human resources department, where she supported day-to-day operations, assisted with customer service and helped manage KFHC’s internal store. She also played a key role in supporting the summer clothing line launch, handling a high volume of orders and learning how to manage time-sensitive tasks in a professional setting. From Member to Extern: Investing in the Next Generation For Jennyfer, the experience represented more than a summer job. Having previously worked seasonal agricultural jobs, the externship offered her a first look at a corporate office environment and the many career pathways available beyond what she had previously known. Beyond practical skills, the externship helped Jennyfer build confidence, strengthen communication skills and better understand how different departments work together to support the organization and its members. As both an extern and a member, the experience also deepened her connection to the mission behind the work. Now pursuing her high school diploma while enrolled in a nurse assisting program through the Kern High School District's Career Technical Education Center, Jennyfer hopes to continue building experience in health care. Her story reflects how KFHC’s externship program supports young people across Kern County by opening doors, building confidence and helping students envision new possibilities for their future. “Being a KFHC member shaped my perspective by seeing how many opportunities and resources my insurance offers for its community, which is something very beautiful to see.” – Jennyfer Ochoa Espino
Our Members 19 Jennyfer Ochoa Espino pictured with fellow 2025 KFHC summer externs, representing the next generation of health care professionals growing right here in Kern County.
20 Celebrating Milestones, Strengthening Community Celebrating Milestones, Strengthening Community OUR PROVIDERS A Strong Network of Care......................................................................21 Sustaining Provider Satisfaction Through Partnership.............................................................................22 Delivering Comprehensive Care Through Trusted Partnership............ 23 Aligning Incentives with Quality Outcomes.......................................... 24 Quality Outcomes Across the Network.................................................25 Removing Barriers Through Cross-Sector Partnership.........................26
A Strong Network of Care Our Providers 21 KFHC’s provider network reflects years of intentional growth and partnership, supporting access to timely, high-quality care across Kern County and beyond. Through collaboration with primary care, specialty, behavioral health and hospital partners, KFHC ensures members can access the right care, in the right setting, when they need it. KFHC continued to demonstrate the strength and readiness of its network, meeting all regulatory access standards and maintaining broad provider availability across service types. With the majority of primary care providers accepting new patients and strong after-hours compliance, the network supports consistent access while remaining responsive to the diverse needs of the communities KFHC serves. 24 Hospitals 28 Urgent Care Facilities 36 Psychologists 101 LMFTs 122 LCSWs 572 Primary Care Physicians 2108 Specialists In Kern County 1616 Specialists Outside Kern County
22 Celebrating Milestones, Strengthening Community Each year, KFHC conducts a provider satisfaction survey to assess engagement, experience and overall satisfaction across its provider network. For the 2025 survey, reflecting calendar year 2024, KFHC partnered with Press Ganey to gather feedback and benchmark performance against Medicaid health plans nationwide. Survey results demonstrated continued strength and consistency, with KFHC scoring above the 90th percentile across all measured attributes when compared to the survey vendor’s 2024 Medicaid book of business. Providers contracted with KFHC reported an overall satisfaction rate of 90.5 percent, which is significantly higher than the 66.4 percent reported by providers contracted with a major market competitor. These results reflect sustained provider confidence and reinforce the effectiveness of KFHC’s collaborative, partnership-driven approach. Sustaining Provider Satisfaction Through Partnership Celebrating Milestones, Strengthening Community
Our Providers 23 For decades, Open Door Network has been a trusted presence in Kern County, supporting individuals and families affected by violence, exploitation and homelessness. Building on that legacy, Open Door Network has become a key partner in KFHC’s Enhanced Care Management (ECM) program— extending its reach to provide coordinated, wraparound services for members with the most complex needs. Under the leadership of Marvin Luna, Open Door Network has seamlessly integrated ECM services into its existing community-based model. By combining deep local relationships with comprehensive care coordination, the organization helps members navigate medical, behavioral and social supports in a way that is both compassionate and highly effective. Delivering Comprehensive Care Through Trusted Partnership Open Door Network’s efforts span multiple areas of collaboration across KFHC, including health equity, enhanced care management, community support services and provider network management. This cross-functional partnership has strengthened access to care, improved continuity of services and ensured members receive support tailored to their individual circumstances. In addition to its impact in the community, Open Door Network has demonstrated consistent operational excellence, maintaining strong audit performance while remaining a reliable and responsive partner. Together, this work reflects the type of trusted collaboration that allows KFHC’s provider network to deliver meaningful outcomes for vulnerable populations—today and into the future. Scan to learn more about The Open Door Network
24 Celebrating Milestones, Strengthening Community KFHC’s Pay for Performance (P4P) Program aligns provider incentives with measurable clinical and operational outcomes, reinforcing shared accountability and long-term investment in quality care across Kern County. In 2025, the program prioritized children’s health and preventive care, focusing on areas where timely access and continuity have the greatest impact. Through targeted incentives, providers were supported in expanding screenings, improving appointment availability and deploying mobile services to reduce barriers and close care gaps. 2025 P4P Program Highlights (through Q3) • Incentives paid through the third quarter • Continued focus on prevention and chronic care measures • Strong participation from primary care practices across Kern County With fourth-quarter payments still pending, total 2025 P4P incentives are expected to mirror 2024 levels and demonstrate sustained investment in provider performance. Together, these efforts underscore KFHC’s commitment to responsible stewardship, quality improvement and partnership-driven care that supports healthier outcomes for members and communities. Aligning Incentives with Quality Outcomes
Building on that momentum, KFHC has begun auditing measurement year 2025, with final results expected in the third quarter of 2026. Early indicators show continued progress, with improvement currently demonstrated in 15 of 18 measures overall, including notable performance within children’s health and behavioral health. These outcomes reflect sustained investments in access and prevention, including expanded pediatric availability, extended service hours and the continued use of mobile services to reach rural and underserved communities. Together, these efforts reinforce KFHC’s ability to deliver measurable quality outcomes at scale while remaining well positioned for continued progress in the years ahead. Quality Outcomes Across the Network Our Providers 25 KFHC continues to demonstrate consistent improvement across key quality measures, reflecting a coordinated, systemwide approach to care delivery and strong provider partnership. California’s Managed Care Accountability Set (MCAS) serves as a core framework for monitoring performance across preventive care, chronic disease management, behavioral health and children’s health. Final results for measurement year 2024 were confirmed at the end of September. Compared to the prior year, KFHC improved performance in 16 of 18 MCAS measures, reflecting measurable gains across multiple domains of care.
26 Celebrating Milestones, Strengthening Community Addressing health outcomes often requires action beyond traditional clinical settings. Through a partnership with California State University, Bakersfield and local legal and justice partners, KFHC supported a series of Pop-Up Expungement Clinics designed to help justice-involved individuals remove barriers to stability, access and reintegration. Removing Barriers Through Cross-Sector Partnership The clinics, led through CSUB’s Legal Information and Support Clinic, provided expedited post-conviction relief for community members seeking to clear eligible records. By bringing services directly into neighborhoods, participants were able to receive legal determinations on-site—often the same day—eliminating the complexity and delay that typically accompany the expungement process.
Our Providers 27 “Certain challenges in our community require multiple hands… It takes the collective effort of the university, our community partners, especially in health care and the judicial system… And by solving problems for individuals, we’re solving problems for our overall community.” Dr. Jeanine Kraybill, Director, Pre-Law Program, CSU Bakersfield KFHC strengthened the initiative by layering health-focused support into the legal framework. In addition to helping secure clinic locations and providing logistical support, KFHC connected participants to clinical services, case management and community resources addressing employment, housing and other essential needs. This integrated approach reflects KFHC’s broader commitment to supporting successful community reentry and addressing social factors that directly influence health. For providers and partners, the expungement clinics demonstrate how coordinated collaboration across health care, legal services, education and justice systems can produce meaningful, scalable outcomes. The model developed in Kern County has emerged as a statewide example of how cross-sector partnerships can work together to restore opportunity, strengthen public safety and support healthier futures. Scan to learn more about the Health and Justice Expungement Project
28 Celebrating Milestones, Strengthening Community Celebrating Milestones, Strengthening Community OUR COMMUNITY Community Impact in Action.........................................29 Babies in Bloom........................................................ 29 Advancing Health Through Housing Stability. ......... 30 Advancing Black Maternal and Infant Health...........31 Investing in Community-Led Solutions.........................32
Babies in Bloom KFHC marked an important milestone in 2025 with the launch of Babies in Bloom, a new community-based event designed to support expecting mothers in rural Kern County. The first event was held in Lamont, creating a welcoming and affirming space for moms-to-be to connect, learn and prepare for the arrival of their babies. More than a traditional baby shower, Babies in Bloom combined celebration with education and access to care. Expecting mothers received maternity photos, self-care services and essential baby items, including stocked diaper bags and safety-focused items such as car seats. Resource tables hosted by KFHC teams and community partners offered Community Impact in Action KFHC’s community work reflects a sustained commitment to addressing the conditions that shape health beyond the clinical setting. Through partnerships, targeted investments and community-led initiatives, KFHC supported families, strengthened stability and advanced equity across Kern County, demonstrating readiness for the work ahead. Our Community 29 information on maternal nutrition, behavioral health, safe sleep practices, car seat safety and pregnancy warning signs. The event also created opportunities for meaningful connection with care providers. An on-site OB-GYN led a Q&A session, offering personalized guidance and helping participants feel informed and supported throughout their pregnancy journey. Babies in Bloom reflects KFHC’s commitment to meeting families where they are and addressing maternal and infant health in ways that are both compassionate and practical. Building on the success of the Lamont event, the program will continue as an annual initiative, expanding to communities across Kern County in the years ahead.
30 Celebrating Milestones, Strengthening Community Advancing Health Through Housing Stability Stable housing is essential to improving health outcomes and building stronger communities. In 2025, KFHC continued to expand its role as a strategic partner in addressing housing insecurity across Kern County through targeted investments made possible by the Housing and Homelessness Incentive Program. Through a partnership with California Veterans Assistance Foundation, KFHC supported the development of Covey Cottages, a permanent housing community in Oildale for veterans age 55 and older who are facing or at risk of homelessness. Our investment helped fund 12 studio apartments and a shared community space, providing stability, dignity and long-term support for those who have served. KFHC also contributed to Elevate Housing, supporting the creation of 36 non-congregate housing units in downtown Bakersfield for youth ages 18–24 experiencing or at risk of homelessness. Beyond shelter, the project connects residents to health care, job training and supportive services that help young people build a path toward long-term stability and independence. In partnership with Akido Labs, KFHC made its largest housing-related investment to date in support of the development of 50 permanent supportive housing units on Haley Street and Oregon Street in East Bakersfield. The investment also helped launch a Street Medicine Program, bringing medical care directly to individuals experiencing homelessness through mobile units and dedicated care teams. Together, these initiatives reflect KFHC’s long-term approach to addressing housing insecurity as a critical driver of health. By investing in permanent housing and integrated services for veterans, youth and individuals experiencing homelessness, KFHC is helping create the stability needed for healthier outcomes today and in the years ahead. Celebrating Milestones, Strengthening Community
Advancing Black Maternal and Infant Health Black maternal and infant health disparities remain among the most urgent health equity challenges in California and Kern County. Black women in California are nearly four times more likely to die from maternal complications than women of other races, and in Kern County, Black maternal deaths are 1.5 times higher than the state average. Formed in 2021 by Kern County Public Health Department and First 5 Kern, the Black Infant and Maternal Health Initiative (BIMHI) brings together public agencies, nonprofits, providers and community leaders to address these disparities through education, advocacy and community-driven solutions. KFHC plays an active leadership role in supporting BIMHI’s work. Anastasia Lester, senior health equity analyst, serves as BIMHI chair, helping guide strategy and coordination across partners. Isabel Silva, senior director of wellness and prevention, serves as a voting member of the steering committee, while additional KFHC team members support event planning, data analysis and outreach efforts. Through educational forums, provider symposiums, community walks and awareness campaigns, BIMHI works to increase health literacy, strengthen trust and improve access to culturally responsive maternal care. These efforts are designed not only to raise awareness, but to support long-term systems change that improves outcomes for Black mothers, infants and families across Kern County. KFHC’s continued involvement reflects a broader commitment to collaborative, community-led approaches that address disparities at their root and support healthier beginnings for families today and in the future. Our Community 31 “Our support goes beyond sponsorships. It’s about showing up, building trust and helping our community close the gap in care.” – Isabel Silva, senior director of wellness and prevention
32 Celebrating Milestones, Strengthening Community KFHC invests directly in local nonprofit organizations working to improve health outcomes, reduce disparities and expand access to essential resources across Kern County. Through the Community Grant Program, these investments support community-led solutions that strengthen families and promote long-term stability. During the 2025 grant cycle KFHC approved 111 projects, reflecting both the depth of need and the strength of community-based innovation throughout the region. The following highlights offer a snapshot of the program’s impact. Celebrating Milestones, Strengthening Community Investing in Community-Led Solutions Bakersfield Angels – Every Sole Matters Grant funding supported Every Sole Matters, providing 339 children and youth in foster care with brand-name shoes, backpacks and essential clothing and hygiene items. The project emphasized dignity, confidence and a sense of belonging through personalized choices and engaging activities. Boys & Girls Club of Kern County – Growing Healthy Futures At the E.L. Jack and Monica Armstrong Youth Center in East Bakersfield, funding supported a mobile garden bed program that teaches children and teens about nutrition, gardening and healthy eating while building lifelong skills.
CAPK Oasis Family Resource Center (Ridgecrest) – Oasis Safe and Fresh Start Project This project supported families with young children through the distribution of car seats, formula and toddler supplies and enhanced the Oasis Baby Shower for 24 expecting families. Funding also helped provide hygiene kits and sleeping bags to unhoused individuals. Flood Ministries – Delano Navigation Center – Dignity Kits Grant funding supported the distribution of Dignity Kits through street outreach teams serving rural areas of Delano, providing essential hygiene items and strengthening trust with individuals experiencing homelessness. Together, these projects reflect KFHC’s commitment to partnering with trusted organizations to address immediate needs and support healthier, more equitable communities. Our Community 33
34 Celebrating Milestones, Strengthening Community Celebrating Milestones, Strengthening Community OUR EMPLOYEES The Workforce Driving Our Purpose...........................................................35 KFHC Is a Great Place to Work...................................................................36 Connect Week: A New Model Aligning People, Purpose and Strategy......37 Building Leaders from Within.....................................................................38 Justice, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion in Action........................................39 Employees in Service to Community..........................................................40
We continued to strengthen our workforce to support a growing scope of services and community needs. As of year’s end, the organization employed 681 team members, reflecting steady growth and long-term organizational stability. During the year, KFHC welcomed 71 new hires, including 41 full-time employees and 30 student summer externs, expanding both operational capacity and future talent pipelines. The workforce reflects the communities KFHC serves, with a majority of employees identifying as Hispanic, supporting culturally responsive care and language access across Kern County. The Workforce Driving Our Purpose KFHC’s progress is powered by the people behind the work. As the organization continues to grow and prepare for what’s next, investments in workforce capacity, development and culture remain central to sustaining impact across Kern County. 30 Interns 71 New Hires 681 Total Employees EMPLOYEE ETHNICITY Caucasian 176 Black 37 Hispanic/Latino 403 Asian 57 Native Hawaiian/ Pacific Islander 4 American Indian/ Alaskan Native 2 Two or More Races 10 Our Employees 35
36 Celebrating Milestones, Strengthening Community In 2025, KFHC earned Great Place to Work® certification based entirely on employee feedback. This recognition reflects the culture our teams experience every day. The “Great Place to Work Trust Index® Survey” measures credibility, respect, fairness, pride and camaraderie across the organization. This year, 92 percent of employees said KFHC is a great place to work, compared to 57 percent at a typical U.S.-based company. In addition, KFHC Is a Great Place to Work 94 percent of employees shared that when they join KFHC, they are made to feel welcome, highlighting the strength of our onboarding experience and inclusive culture. These results reflect more than workplace satisfaction. They speak to a culture grounded in trust, support and shared responsibility, where employees feel valued, heard and empowered to do their best work in service of the community. Building on this achievement, KFHC was also recognized by Fortune as one of the 2025 Best Workplaces in Health Care, further affirming the strength of our organizational culture. This national recognition places KFHC among health care organizations that demonstrate a consistent commitment to employee engagement and well-being. As KFHC continues to grow and prepare for what’s next, investing in our people remains foundational. A strong, supported workforce is essential to sustaining excellence, advancing equity and serving Kern County with care and integrity.
Our Employees 37 values in action. Opportunities ranged from professional headshots and an ethics escape room to team celebrations and family-friendly programming. Connect Week also served as a springboard for deeper learning. Throughout the remainder of March, KFHC hosted a series of workshops focused on topics such as equity, financial planning and professional development, continuing the conversations sparked during the week. Employee feedback underscored the impact of the initiative. Based on 150 employee responses, Connect Week earned an overall satisfaction rating of 4.63 out of 5, reinforcing the value of creating intentional spaces for connection, clarity and alignment across the organization. “I’ve been here for 10 years, and this is the first time I truly felt connected to where we’re going as an organization.” – KFHC employee, post-Connect Week survey Connect Week: A New Model Aligning People, Purpose and Strategy In March 2025, KFHC launched its first Connect Week, a new internal engagement experience designed to bring employees together around shared strategy, values and direction. Created as a weeklong series of short, highimpact touchpoints, Connect Week offered a structured and inclusive way for employees across departments, roles and schedules to hear directly from leadership and connect to the organization’s priorities for the year ahead. Each morning, employees joined a 15-minute live Microsoft Teams session anchored in one of KFHC’s core values. Executive leaders shared updates, reflected on progress and highlighted how teams across the organization contribute to long-term goals. The format ensured consistency in messaging while remaining accessible to both in-person and remote staff. Beyond the daily broadcasts, Connect Week extended into interactive experiences throughout the week. Employees participated in themed activities, engagement challenges and creative moments designed to reinforce Now established as an annual experience, Connect Week reflects KFHC’s commitment to intentional communication, employee engagement and organizational alignment as the health plan prepares for what comes next.
38 Celebrating Milestones, Strengthening Community In 2025, KFHC launched its first Mentorship Program, a structured initiative designed to develop talent, strengthen collaboration and support long-term professional growth across the organization. The program pairs experienced employees with mentees seeking to expand their skills and career pathways, encouraging knowledge sharing, cross-department learning and leadership development. Guided by a formal framework, mentorship relationships emphasize goal-setting, accountability and continuous learning. The six-month inaugural program matched 12 mentors with 12 mentees in goal-driven partnerships supported by monthly meetings. Participants explored leadership competencies, built professional confidence and gained broader insight into how their work connects to KFHC’s priorities. For many mentees, the experience opened doors to new possibilities. “The Mentorship Program was the best experience I could ask for,” said mentee Kip Delany. “My mentor showed me different aspects of the organization I wasn’t aware of and helped me see how I could continue growing within KFHC.” Building Leaders from Within Celebrating Milestones, Strengthening Community Mentors found the experience equally impactful. As mentor Hernan Hernandez shared, the program extended beyond individual development. “Together, my mentee and I developed a project focused on increasing access to care in rural communities in East Kern County. It allowed us to grow professionally while staying connected to why our work matters.” The inaugural cohort concluded in summer 2025, marking an important step in KFHC’s approach to workforce development and leadership continuity. As the Mentorship Program continues, it will remain a key part of KFHC’s employee development strategy, helping build a prepared workforce equipped to lead and collaborate in the years ahead.
Advancing justice, equity, diversity and inclusion is guided by the work of the employee-led JEDI (Justice, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion) Committee. The committee helps foster belonging, cultural awareness and meaningful engagement across the organization through education, dialogue and employee-led initiatives throughout the year. A defining moment of this work in 2025 was KFHC’s first Juneteenth panel discussion, hosted by the JEDI Committee on June 19. The event brought employees together for an open and thoughtful conversation centered on history, freedom and the ongoing pursuit of equity. Moderated by Chief Health Equity Officer Traco Matthews, the panel featured community and education leaders who shared perspectives grounded in lived experience and service, including Dr. Steven Bloomberg, chancellor of the Kern Community College District; Michael Bowers, health care executive and civic leader; Tee Daniels, retired mentor and longtime community advocate; and Dr. Shaylyn Marks, CSUB professor and author. The discussion reinforced that equity is not a moment in time, but a shared and ongoing responsibility. Throughout the year, the JEDI Committee also led and supported employee engagement tied to cultural and heritage observances, helping keep inclusion visible and meaningful across the organization. These efforts included Pride Month activities, Black History Month employee spotlights and community conversations, Hispanic Heritage Month celebrations and Diwali recognition. Together, these initiatives reflect KFHC’s commitment to building a workplace where employees feel respected, seen and valued; and where equity is woven into how the organization learns, connects and leads. Justice, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion in Action Our Employees 39
40 Celebrating Milestones, Strengthening Community Compassionate care at KFHC extends beyond the workplace and into the communities we serve. Our employees consistently give their time and energy to support local organizations addressing food insecurity, homelessness and urgent needs across Kern County. In 2025, 132 employees volunteered a total of 642 hours. Volunteer efforts focused on organizations serving populations with the greatest need, including senior food distribution programs, shelters and community-based service providers. Among the most popular opportunities were senior food box events, where KFHC volunteers continue to set the pace—packing a record 28 pallets, or 1,344 food boxes, in under three hours. Responding in a Moment of Need That commitment was especially evident during an unexpected challenge in November. When SNAP benefits were paused due to a federal government shutdown, teams from member engagement and community engagement mobilized immediately to support emergency food distribution efforts across Kern County. Over the course of one week, employees volunteered 73 hours at distribution sites in Bakersfield, Delano, Ridgecrest, Taft and Mojave, helping ensure families continued to receive critical food support during a period of uncertainty. Whether through ongoing volunteer partnerships or rapid response during moments of need, KFHC employees continue to lead with compassion, reliability and care—demonstrating what it means to serve the community, not just support it. Celebrating Milestones, Strengthening Community Employees in Service to Community
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