Dr. James Withers, Medical Director at Operation Safety Net and the Street Medicine Institute, has been a pioneering figure in street medicine for over 30 years. Since founding Operation Safety Net in 1993, Dr. Withers has dedicated his career to bringing healthcare directly to the homeless and underserved populations, transforming the field of street medicine on a global scale. His innovative work provides accessible care to those most marginalized, using a compassionate, patient-centered approach that bridges gaps in traditional healthcare settings.

Dr. Withers earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry from Haverford College and went on to complete his Doctor of Medicine at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine. His commitment to serving vulnerable populations has been widely recognized; in 2015, he was honored as one of CNN's Top 10 Heroes for his impactful work. Under his leadership, Operation Safety Net has expanded its services to meet the complex needs of people experiencing homelessness, including comprehensive primary care, mental health support, and assistance with housing. Dr. Withers continues to be a leading voice and advocate within the Street Medicine Institute, guiding the next generation of street medicine practitioners and driving systemic change to make healthcare more equitable and accessible for all.