Dr. Jennifer Ashton is a distinguished physician, author, and television correspondent, known for her role as the chief health and medical editor and chief medical correspondent for ABC News and Good Morning America. With a career spanning multiple media platforms and a robust medical practice, Dr. Ashton has become a trusted voice in women's health, obesity medicine, and nutrition, while also authoring several best-selling books and contributing to significant health and wellness discussions on national television.
Early Career and Medical Training
Dr. Jennifer Ashton completed her undergraduate studies at Columbia College, Columbia University, earning a bachelor's degree in art history in 1991. She then pursued a medical degree at Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, where she served as class president for all four years and received the Bartlestone Prize in Pharmacology upon graduation in 2000[1][2]. Following medical school, Ashton completed her residency in obstetrics and gynecology at St. Luke's-Roosevelt Hospital Center (now Mount Sinai Morningside) in New York City, where she was awarded Chief Resident of the Year, a first in the program's history[1][2]. She later earned a master's degree in nutrition from Columbia University in 2016, making her one of the few national media figures with formal credentials in both medicine and nutrition[1][4].
Transition to Television and Media
Dr. Jennifer Ashton began her television career in 2006 as the first female medical contributor to the Fox News Channel, appearing on programs such as TLC's *A Baby Story* and PBS. She joined CBS News in 2009 as a medical correspondent, contributing to "The Early Show" and "CBS Evening News" and covering significant events like the 2010 Haiti earthquake[1][3]. In 2012, she transitioned to ABC News, initially as a senior medical contributor, and later became the network's chief health and medical correspondent, the first woman to hold this title[1][4]. Ashton has co-hosted "GMA3: What You Need to Know" since 2020, providing critical health updates during the COVID-19 pandemic[3][5].
Books and Publications
Dr. Jennifer Ashton has authored several influential books that focus on health, wellness, and resilience. Her notable works include "The Self-Care Solution: A Year of Becoming Happier, Healthier, and Fitter--One Month at a Time," which provides practical advice for improving physical and mental health through monthly challenges[2][5]. Another significant publication is "Life After Suicide: Finding Courage, Comfort & Community After Unthinkable Loss," where she shares her personal journey and offers support to those affected by suicide[4][5]. Additionally, "The New Normal: A Roadmap to Resilience in the Pandemic Era" addresses coping strategies during the COVID-19 pandemic, emphasizing the importance of resilience and mental health[1][3]. Dr. Ashton’s books are well-regarded for their accessible and empathetic approach, making complex medical and psychological concepts understandable for a broad audience.
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