John T. Heidrick, DO, FAAFP
Family Medicine
Hospital Affiliations
Mercy Hospital of Bakersfield, Mercy Southwest Hospital
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This physician wants to get to know you and your health needs before you join their practice. Fill out the form to receive more information, or schedule a meeting with Dr. Heidrick.
MDVIP Annual Membership Fee
MDVIP’s annual fee covers the Wellness Program and generally can be made in quarterly, semi-annual and annual payments.
Quarterly
$700.00*
Semi-Annual
$1,400.00*
Annual
$2,800.00*
About John T. Heidrick, DO, FAAFP
As a board-certified primary care physician, I nurture close relationships with my patients and provide them with the same compassionate, personal approach to medical care as I would my own family. In my smaller MDVIP-affiliated family practice, I have the time to better get to know my patients well beyond their immediate symptoms. I have the tools to better address many areas of health proactively, from nutrition, fitness, and emotional well-being to better managing chronic illness.
With my 25 years of experience – eight in my MDVIP-affiliated office – I offer families comprehensive care outside of the MDVIP Wellness Program services, from geriatrics to well-woman examinations, including Pap smear tests, well-child and adolescent exams. I also have extensive experience with urgent care, dermatology, minor surgery, casting of simple fractures, joint injections and numerous other procedures.
In a world of usually 10-minute care, my patients are perhaps most impressed that I can dedicate approximately two hours for their comprehensive wellness program appointments. I offer same-day or next-day visits. I am reachable during and after hours, and appointments begin on time and are unhurried. My MDVIP-affiliated practice also offers services, including comprehensive, advanced health screenings and diagnostic tests, that go far beyond those found in concierge medicine practices. I believe my patients feel they are part of an old-fashioned practice with advanced tools and technology.
My Bakersfield, California, office team is awesome! Everyone is friendly, compassionate and dedicated to making your visits efficient and memorable. As a private doctor who provides personalized care, my goal is to guide my patients on a path to as optimal wellness as possible so they can enjoy healthier, more active lives. We serve patients in Bakersfield, Tehachapi, the Kern River Valley area, Lamont, Delano, Arvin, Shafter and throughout Kern County.
Residency
Southern Illinois University
Springfield, IL
Family Practice 1988-1990
Chief Resident, Family Practice 1989-1990
Springfield, IL
Family Practice 1988-1990
Chief Resident, Family Practice 1989-1990
Internship
Normandy Osteopathic Hospital
St. Louis, MO
Rotating 1987-1988
St. Louis, MO
Rotating 1987-1988
Medical School
Des Moines University, College of Osteopathic Medicine
Des Moines, IA
Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine 1987
Des Moines, IA
Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine 1987
Undergraduate
San Diego State University
San Diego, CA
Bachelor of Science, Biology 1983
San Diego, CA
Bachelor of Science, Biology 1983
American Board of Family Practice
Mercy Hospital of Bakersfield
Mercy Southwest Hospital
Mercy Southwest Hospital
President/Treasurer, Preferred Family Care Physicians - A Medical Corporation, Bakersfield, CA 1996-2014
Medical Director, Optimal Hospice, Bakersfield, CA 1997-2002
Board Member, Foundation for Medical Care of Kern County, Bakersfield 1997-2002
Chair, Department of Family Practice/Pediatrics, San Joaquin Community Hospital 1995-1997, 1999-2002
Chief of Service, Family Practice, Kaiser Permanente, Bakersfield, Physician-in-Charge, Ming Avenue Office, Kaiser Permanente, Bakersfield, CA 1993-1996
Medical Director, Optimal Hospice, Bakersfield, CA 1997-2002
Board Member, Foundation for Medical Care of Kern County, Bakersfield 1997-2002
Chair, Department of Family Practice/Pediatrics, San Joaquin Community Hospital 1995-1997, 1999-2002
Chief of Service, Family Practice, Kaiser Permanente, Bakersfield, Physician-in-Charge, Ming Avenue Office, Kaiser Permanente, Bakersfield, CA 1993-1996
California
Benefits of joining Dr. Heidrick's practice with MDVIP
MDVIP Wellness Program
Expect comprehensive screenings and tests and a custom wellness plan designed for you.
Better Doctor-Patient Relationship
97% of MDVIP members are satisfied with their relationship (vs 58% in traditional PCP).
Same/Next-Day Appointments
See Dr. Heidrick quickly and take your time during each appointment.
Reachable 24/7
Reach Dr. Heidrick by phone after-hours and on weekends.
Smaller Practice Size
MDVIP practices are smaller than most primary care practices, which means your doctor has more time to help you.
Your Dedicated Doctor
See Dr. Heidrick when you go to the office — not someone else like a nurse practitioner or physician assistant
Travel Benefits
If you need urgent care while traveling, your physician can help arrange your care with a local hospital, pharmacy or doctor.
Medical Centers of Excellence
For patients who need care beyond what is available locally, MDVIP can connect your doctor with specialists at some of the country’s leading medical institutions
Better Health Outcomes
Members have better control of chronic conditions like type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol and hypertension.
The office of John T. Heidrick, DO, FAAFP
Hours
| Mon | 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM |
| Tue | 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM |
| Wed | 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM |
| Thu | 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM |
| Fri | 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM |
| Sat | Closed |
| Sun | Closed |
Dr Heidrick has been our doctor since he first came to Bakersfield and was with Kaiser. He left after a couple years and we followed him to his private practice. When he joined MDVIP we joined immediately. He has always been there for us no matter the day or time. Since we have his cell number I called him at 3:00 AM when my husband was having what I thought was a heart attack but turned out to…
Maureen
February 13, 2024
I am deeply grateful for the exceptional care provided by Dr. Heidrick. His thoughtful approach and depth of knowledge have been invaluable to me throughout my medical journey. I have always trusted him to stay at the forefront of innovative procedures and protocols, and his role as a thought leader in the field only amplifies my confidence in his expertise.
Our discussions about my health are…
Robert
February 10, 2024
On a Sunday, I was opening a can of tuna and cut my finger on the lid. I couldn't get it to quit bleeding. I called Dr. Heidrick who said he'd meet me at his office in 20 minutes. He put in 8 stitches and was completely gracious even though it was a Sunday. My finger healed beautifully.
Kate
January 25, 2024
Dr Heidrick has been our doctor for over 25 years. We absolutely love him. We joined MDVIP when he started. Almost 8 years ago my husband passed away. I don’t know what I would have done without him. He has helped me in so many ways. I’m fairly healthy and it’s probably due to him. Shortly before COVID I was going to the gym and lost considerable weight. He helped to to totally get rid of 13…
Martha
January 23, 2024
Reviews from the web
02/02/2019
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Since I am now officially a senior, its important to have a doctor who really wants to help you stay fit and healthy so you have as much time that you enjoy your family and can play and active role in their development. Heidrick has help us stay healthy by training us to make the right decisions to stay healthy.
11/03/2016
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Easily the best doctor in the County. Very professional, I always know he is listening and helps me and my family stay healthy!
02/08/2023
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Totally satisfied with the care I am receiving from Dr Heidrick. He is a true professional and runs a very professional office.
02/07/2024
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Joining Dr. Heidrick’s MDVIP practice has been one of the best things my husband and I have done to insure we remain as healthy and active as possible. Dr. Heidrick always takes the time to thoroughly explain test results, medications, and procedures. Highly recommend him.
02/15/2022
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Dr. Heidrick is a terrific primary care physician. He is extremely knowledgeable, is a great communicator, is extremely accessible, and is a truly nice guy too. I can almost always get an appointment the same day I call or within a day, and he is very responsive to after-hours texts. I have tremendous confidence in him. Best doctor I have ever had!
02/02/2019
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Always responsive to questions and problems in a timely manner, usually the same day.
Is in contact with the hospital doctor to suggest and agree upon treatment and medication.
Suggests and arranges for out-of-town doctor when needed.
Excellent diagnostician.
Very friendly and helpful staff.
Knows patient on a first-name basis.
Is in contact with the hospital doctor to suggest and agree upon treatment and medication.
Suggests and arranges for out-of-town doctor when needed.
Excellent diagnostician.
Very friendly and helpful staff.
Knows patient on a first-name basis.
12/13/2019
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Dr. Heidrick and his staff are very friendly and accommodating! I feel relaxed when I'm there and always grateful for the good work they do!
03/03/2019
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I have GREAT confidence in Dr. Heidrick! The man is brilliant whenever I need a diagnosis he is right on with what is wrong and what the cure will be. I hope he never retires. Thank you Dr heidrick you're the best!
02/06/2024
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It's great to feel recognized as an individual in the health care industry. Kudos!
03/02/2020
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Dr. Heidrick is an amazing physician. One of his strongest attributes is listening. He doesn't ignore what you have to say about your health he makes you an equal partner.
03/19/2022
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Dr. Heidrick is thorough in keeping me up to date with my own medical needs. He is quick to respond and I often get the results of tests or procedures prior to being contacted by the doctors that ordered them. This often is a relief to me. He, through voice messages or e-mails provides updates and medical information that allows me to make decisions that guide me to better health. He maintains an ever expanding base of knowledge and learning that to me is amazing. My wife and I both belong to MDVIP and the close, personal, family care that Dr. Heidrick and his staff provides is exceptional. Dr. Heidrick is a true example of a compassionate and caring medical professional working toward wellness for all his patients.
02/06/2023
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It’s hard to explain how great this experience is to others. They kind of look at me like I’m crazy. I’ve sent some to Dr. John (as I call him) and they also love the experience.
03/01/2024
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Dr Heidrick and his staff are beyond 5 stars. Extremely professional and attentive! If it weren’t for Dr Heidrick my husband would not be alive today.
10/29/2018
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Dr Heidrick and his staff are awesome. Very carring, and thoughtful. Dr stays current on changes in Methods and Medicenes. I wouldn’t go anywhere else
01/18/2023
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All health care professionals ought to exhibit the respect, genuine concern, and above-and-beyond seeking for solutions we experience with Dr. Heidrick. In an age in which patients are often treated more like annoying customers rather than people, Heidrick has been a welcome change in which the humanity and concerns of the patient are once again listened to, heard, and cared for.
02/02/2019
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I am blessed to be a patient of Dr. John Heidrick. He continues to keep me living a good quality of life. I am a stage 4b cancer survivor. Having major side effects from aggressive chemo. It takes alot of medications,followups,precautions. Dr. Heidrick is on it.Because of some of the test and his knowledge ,he has saved me alot of pain and suffering.
His staff is like family. You can feel the team work immediately. They go above and beyond making sure you have proper care. A rare thing this day and time. Especially compared to many other medical offices. I'm extremely grateful and highly recommend.
Thank you for allowing me to Express!
His staff is like family. You can feel the team work immediately. They go above and beyond making sure you have proper care. A rare thing this day and time. Especially compared to many other medical offices. I'm extremely grateful and highly recommend.
Thank you for allowing me to Express!
06/14/2014
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When we first learned about MDVIP and Dr. Heidrick, our concern was, will we be able to be accepted as patients? Fortunately, we were accepted. My husband and myself have had the most comprehensive physical we have experienced in our lives. We are not happy with the health issues uncovered through the physicals, especially for my hubby, but now, we can start on correcting them. With the resources Dr. John has, as well as his own experience in medicine. we are feeling so confident that we are receiving the medical care we've been looking for for years.
Doctors that actually listen to your health concerns and then give thoughtful consideration to your needs are far and few between. We know we found our "fountain of youth", so to speak. Thanks, Dr Heidrick, for practicing medicine with competency and compassion.
Doctors that actually listen to your health concerns and then give thoughtful consideration to your needs are far and few between. We know we found our "fountain of youth", so to speak. Thanks, Dr Heidrick, for practicing medicine with competency and compassion.
02/06/2024
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Been with Dr. Heidrick from the start. Wouldn’t change a thing! 👍
02/03/2023
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I was Dr. Heidrick's patient before he joined MDVIP. Although my retirement is not huge, I adjusted it to continue the care he provided before MDVIP and worth every cent. The added value is Dr Heidrick's staff, creating a family environment. The comfort to have a serious discussion with Dr Heidrick regarding my health is important and valued. I recommended him to my family, and friends; most are now his patients. A very good friend called to ask me if I still loved my doctor, I said yes and gave her the office number. Since, every time we got together, she thanked me. She loved Dr. Heidrick - She passed away last year and her husband a few years back. Health is a high priority and its a comfort to know Dr Heidrick and his staff are there for me, husband, son & daughter. Thank you, Dr Heidrick. please share my gratitude with your staff, especially Susana. She has been with you 10 years, from the time you opened your MDVIP-affiliated practice. I can be difficult when anxious about a condition/situation and the two of you know how to calm me down. Wishing you and your staff health and continued success in your practice. Angie
02/02/2019
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I am extremely satisfied with the care I have received during and after business hours. As a family with numerous health issues, it is important to know that me AND my family are taken care at any time during the week or weekend. Dr. Heidrick has been such a blessing to us ~ we would not be able to function as well without him and his amazing staff taking care of us.
03/26/2025
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I just had a very bad case of covid and since I have a kidney transplant, I could not have the normal medications. Dr Heidrick searched the US for a drug that would not harm my transplant, incl. calling infectious disease specialist. He found one and I am finally on my way back to getting stronger. I might add that I'm 88.
03/04/2019
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Dr. Heidrick stays current with ongoing research in new medical treatments so that his patients benefit from his knowledge.
11/29/2016
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Dr. Heidrick has been my doctor for 28 years. Until recently I've only had to see him for flu shots, yearly check ins and maybe a strep throat or two. This last year has been a real challenge for me in many ways related to my health. Doctor H could not be more attentive and determined to get to the cause of my crazy symptoms. I could not imagine having any one else manage my health care. His office staff is amazing, and very caring and efficient. He gets an A+ in my world.
02/08/2019
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Dr Heidrick takes a personal interest in your health and wellness. This is a completely different form of personal interaction than is possible from physicians who maintain a customer base of thousands.
02/12/2025
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I have been blessed with great health, but do feel that at my age I need a good annual checkup and review of my current condition. I actually enjoy the physical and followup as it addresses any concerns I may have. Dr. Heidrick is very direct and clear and considers my personal approach to my health.
03/18/2022
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The last two years have been anything but normal. It has been great to be a patient of Dr. Heidrick. He has kept us informed via voicemails and emails as things have changed with Covid 19. Including recommending certain vitamins and supplements to give us the best chance to avoid or lessen the severity in the case we were to fall ill to this virus and his encouragement to immediately call him directly if we are not feeling well. This includes after hours communications with any Health concerns we may have.
03/04/2019
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We have been patients of Dr. Heidrick for a long time. He is a great doctor and a great diagnostician. We are so happy he became an MDVIP-affiliated physician. As my wife and I have gotten older, we have faced a number of health issues. When I was diagnosed with cancer, he was immediately and intimately involved in advising me as to how to proceed and he knew the surgeon who could provide me with the best treatment. He was right. And I am now cancer free. We don't have to wait weeks for an appointment, and we don't have to wait long once we get to the office. We highly recommend him and the MDVIP program. It's worth it!
12/14/2016
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I've known Dr. Heidrick for over 35 years and a kinder, more thorough doctor does not exist. He is very professional and I can't say enough wonderful things about him. Glad to see him in his own practice - lucky patients!
Frequently Asked Questions
Doctors who operate in the MDVIP models typically see far fewer patients than traditional primary care doctors. That gives them more time to develop deeper doctor-patient relationships that can lead to better outcomes. They can also offer conveniences that most primary care doctors can’t, including same- and next-day appointments. They’re available after hours for urgent matters. And they have time to focus on prevention. That focus begins with the MDVIP Wellness Program, which patients pay for with their annual membership fee.
Most MDVIP-affiliated primary care practices accept insurance (your physician can tell you whether they accept your specific insurance plan). Your annual fee pays for preventive care medical services that insurance usually doesn’t cover (e.g., advanced diagnostic testing and screenings). Your MDVIP-affiliated physician will continue to bill your insurance and charge copays, co-insurances and deductibles as he or she currently does for other medical services like sick visits.
MDVIP makes wellness and prevention easier by providing your physician with innovative tools and technology. MDVIP supports your physician’s practice and seeks to eliminate barriers to a positive healthcare experience. Your doctor will determine whether and how to incorporate these tools at his/her discretion.