Kern County healthcare workers face layoffs at Dignity Health, Adventist Health

July 11, 2026 - 16:25

New state filings reveal significant staffing cuts at two of Kern County's largest hospital providers. Dignity Health and Adventist Health have both submitted notices under the California Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification Act, indicating dozens of healthcare workers will lose their jobs in the coming weeks.

According to the filings, Dignity Health plans to lay off 68 employees at Mercy Hospital in Bakersfield. The affected positions include nurses, technicians, and support staff. The hospital cited a decline in patient volume and ongoing financial pressures as reasons for the cuts. Adventist Health also filed a notice for 42 layoffs at its Bakersfield campus, with similar explanations tied to operational restructuring.

Local union representatives expressed frustration, arguing that the layoffs will strain an already overburdened healthcare system. "These are experienced workers who provide critical care," said one union official. "Cutting them during a time when hospitals are still recovering from the pandemic feels shortsighted."

Hospital administrators emphasized that the reductions are part of broader efforts to streamline services and remain financially viable. A Dignity Health spokesperson noted that affected employees will receive severance packages and job placement assistance. Adventist Health offered similar reassurances, stating that the layoffs are limited to specific departments and will not impact emergency services.

The news has sparked concern among patients and community leaders, who worry about longer wait times and reduced access to care. Kern County already faces a shortage of healthcare professionals, and these layoffs could worsen the gap. Both hospitals have stated they will work to minimize disruptions, but the filings confirm that the changes are set to take effect by early next month.