Steven Y. Chen, MD

I have been practicing as a primary care physician in Bakersfield, California, and the surrounding area since 2007. After experiencing medicine in many different settings, I believe a consistent contributor to better health is the partnership between the doctor and patient built on mutual trust and respect that is earned. As an MDVIP-affiliated physician, I have more time to better develop an in-depth understanding of a person's circumstances, which helps me deliver more personalized preventive care. My practice provides more than just a physician to go to for treatment; I have more time to discuss health concerns and the annual MDVIP Wellness Program can help detect issues earlier. 

I am experienced in reviewing acute and chronic illness concerns, such as hypertension, hyperlipidemia and thyroid disorders. I have more time to go over health concerns, such as diabetes, using various modalities, including the insulin pump. My MDVIP-affiliated practice offers services, including comprehensive, advanced health screenings and diagnostic tests, that go far beyond those found in concierge medicine practices.

I have relationships with many specialists in our community to help assist my patients and their unique needs. I also serve as a board member for Houchin Community Blood Bank, as well as the Valley Integrated Provider Network, part of Dignity Health. I am fluent in Mandarin and Taiwanese.

When people ask me why I chose primary care as my field of medicine, I often ask them what they think a primary care physician should be. Most people answer, “I don't know, someone to take care of me when I'm sick.” Although that is true in many of my daily encounters, that is not how I define it. I believe that primary care equates to an emphasis on prevention, which is, in my opinion, foundational to health. In the hustle and bustle of life, I feel that preventive medicine often gets pushed aside and reactive medicine takes over. To me, this has to change for us to have a fair chance to become healthier. If you would like to experience the benefits of more personalized primary care medicine, I invite you to explore joining my practice.

Dr. Chen's Credentials