At Clinica Sierra Vista, we are constantly looking for ways to make healthcare more efficient, comfortable, and advanced for our patients. A recent study conducted right here in Bakersfield by our very own Rio Bravo Family Medicine Residency Program is shedding new light on how technology can improve the patient experience during routine procedures.
Led by Nayoung Sung, MD, and her team, the research focused on a common concern for many patients: the time and potential discomfort associated with getting an Intrauterine Device (IUD).
While IUDs are a highly effective form of birth control, some patients feel anxious about the insertion process. Traditionally, clinicians use a manual exam and a tool called a “uterine sound” to measure the uterus before placement.
Our researchers wanted to see if using Point-of-Care Ultrasound (POCUS)—a quick, non-invasive scan—could make the process better. They compared two groups of patients:
The Conventional Group: Received the standard manual exam and uterine sounding.
The Ultrasound Group: Used a transabdominal ultrasound to guide the placement, skipping the manual measuring steps.
The findings, recently published as a research brief, offered two key takeaways for our patients and clinical staff:
Significant Time Savings: The ultrasound-guided procedures were significantly shorter than the conventional method. By using a quick scan instead of manual measurements, our residents were able to complete the insertion more efficiently.
Consistent Comfort: While the procedure was faster, patients in both groups reported similar pain levels. This tells us that ultrasound is a reliable, high-speed alternative that maintains the same level of patient comfort we strive for in all our clinics.
At an FQHC like Clinica Sierra Vista, efficiency isn’t just about speed—it’s about access.
When we can perform procedures more quickly and accurately, our providers can spend more quality time with more patients. For our residents in the Rio Bravo program, this research proves that incorporating ultrasound into family medicine can improve clinical workflow and support better decision-making right at the bedside.
We are incredibly proud of Dr. Sung and the entire residency team for contributing to medical research that directly impacts the communities of Kern and Fresno counties.
Whether you are visiting us for primary care, dental, or reproductive health, you can rest assured that CSV is at the forefront of medical innovation, always looking for ways to provide the high-quality care you deserve.
Our compassionate team is here to help you find the right fit for your lifestyle.
📞 Call us today at (833) 678-2781 or visit ClinicaSierraVista.org to schedule an appointment at a location near you.
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WIC is a program that helps families with food and nutrition. Call us at (661) 862-5422 or send a message, and we’ll help you see if you qualify.
Here are some ways you might qualify:
You also need to think about your family’s income. Here are the monthly income limits for family sizes:
This income limit is based on 185% of the Federal Poverty Level, and these amounts will be effective from April 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026.
Also, if you’re pregnant, the baby counts as part of your family size when figuring out if you qualify.
Need care right away? Our health centers offer same-day appointments, and our walk-in clinics also offer extended hours. Whether you schedule ahead or stop by, we’re here to deliver fast, high-quality care when and where you need it.
We make it easy to choose the clinic that works best for you. Keep in mind that your preferred location may mean seeing a different provider. Either way, you’ll receive compassionate, expert care from our trusted team, no matter which clinic you visit.
Our providers work across multiple clinics to make care accessible, so their location may vary based on availability. No matter where you’re seen, you can trust our dedicated team to deliver the high-quality care you deserve.
