Nancy Snyderman

Nancy Snyderman

Nancy Lynn Snyderman (born March 26, 1952) is an American physician, author, and former broadcast journalist. She served as the chief medical editor for NBC News from 2006 until her departure in December 2015. Snyderman is also known for her work on ABC News as a medical correspondent for 15 years, where she contributed to 20/20, Good Morning America, and World News Tonight. Her career has been marked by her dedication to public health, medical education, and the communication of complex medical issues to the public.

Early Life and Education

Nancy Snyderman was born in St. Louis, Missouri, to a family with a strong emphasis on education and public service. She pursued her undergraduate education at Indiana University Bloomington, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Microbiology. Following her passion for medicine, Snyderman attended the University of Nebraska Medical Center, where she received her Medical Doctorate. Her residency in Otolaryngology was completed at the University of Pittsburgh, positioning her as a specialist in ear, nose, and throat disorders.

Career

Snyderman's medical career began in academic medicine, focusing on her specialty in otolaryngology. However, her path took a significant turn when she ventured into medical journalism. Her ability to explain complex medical issues in an accessible manner led her to a successful career in broadcast journalism. Snyderman joined ABC News in 1987, where she made significant contributions as a medical correspondent. In 2006, she moved to NBC News, taking on the role of chief medical editor. During her tenure, she covered a wide range of health-related topics, including global health issues, the Affordable Care Act, and outbreaks of diseases such as Ebola and Zika virus.

Controversies

Snyderman's career has not been without controversy. In 2014, she was involved in a high-profile incident during the Ebola outbreak. After returning from Liberia, where she and her crew had been covering the epidemic, Snyderman and her team were placed under a voluntary quarantine. However, she was spotted outside her home during this period, leading to public criticism and a temporary suspension from NBC. Snyderman apologized for the breach of protocol, acknowledging her responsibility as a public health figure to set an example for others.

Post-NBC Career

After leaving NBC News in 2015, Snyderman has focused on public health advocacy and has continued to contribute to the medical field through writing and speaking engagements. She has authored several books aimed at providing the public with accessible information on health and wellness.

Personal Life

Snyderman is married and has three children. She has been open about the challenges of balancing a high-profile career with family life, advocating for work-life balance and the importance of personal well-being.

Legacy

Nancy Snyderman's legacy in medical journalism is marked by her commitment to accurately and responsibly communicating health information to the public. Her career reflects the important role that journalists play in public health education, particularly in times of health crises.