Physicians Are Taking Health Care to the Streets

For those involved, the time can be very rewarding. "It's very inspiring work," Dr. Doohan said. "It reminds us of why we got into medicine in the first place."

There are a number of challenges to providing care on the street, from record keeping to obtaining malpractice coverage, but Dr. Withers said he has found that many of his volunteers like to do it simply because it's rewarding.

Dr. Jim Withers (left) brings medicine to the streets as part of Operation Safety Net, an outreach program for the homeless. Mercy Hospital/Operation Safety Net