Upgrading emergency response across the Kern River Valley

Ridgecrest Regional Hospital and Liberty Ambulance are strengthening emergency medical response across the Kern River Valley with the reopening of the Mt. Mesa ambulance station and the addition of a new all-wheel-drive ambulance.

The station reopened July 18 after completing required improvements designed to help keep it operational during disasters and other emergencies. The upgrades include a generator and updated station capabilities that support dependable emergency response throughout the area.

The new all-wheel-drive ambulance will provide paramedic service to Mt. Mesa, Southlake and surrounding Kern River Valley communities. The vehicle is designed to help crews respond across the region’s rural roads and changing conditions while carrying modern emergency medical equipment.

“Liberty Ambulance continues to provide paramedic service throughout the Kern River Valley and surrounding communities,” said Brian Baskin, operations manager for Liberty Ambulance. “Upgrading the Mt. Mesa station and adding a new ambulance will help us provide improved service as the only paramedic provider serving the Mt. Mesa and Southlake areas.”

Maintaining a local ambulance station gives emergency crews a reliable base of operations closer to the residents they serve. It also strengthens Liberty Ambulance’s ability to support Kern Valley Hospital when patients require emergency care or transportation to another medical facility.

“We are also able to support Kern Valley Hospital with rapid response for interfacility transfers and local emergency care,” Baskin said.

The station reopening reflects RRH’s continued investment in emergency medical equipment and reliable healthcare access for rural communities throughout the Kern River Valley.

With an upgraded station and new ambulance now in service, RRH and Liberty Ambulance are improving their ability to respond when residents need emergency medical care.