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Staff

Barbara Rodriguez

Health Reporter (She/Her)

I’m Barbara Rodriguez, The 19th’s health reporter. I cover the intersection of gender and all things health — particularly how policy on the state and federal level is reshaping health access for some of the nation’s most vulnerable people.

I’ve written about the challenges facing families as they navigate changes to caregiving programs, maternal health, nutrition guidelines and vaccine policy. In an era of rampant online disinformation and rumors, I try to break down evolving health policies to better inform our readers.

I’ve been a professional journalist for nearly 20 years, with a range of editorial roles in different pockets of the country. I’ve reported full time from a statehouse, a presidential campaign trail and doctors’ offices during the early days of a global pandemic. These experiences have reinforced my commitment to telling truthful stories that center people.

I’m based in the Midwest, and like to report on the realities — including the beauty — of middle America.

My work is free to consume and free to republish because of contributions from readers like you. A donation of $19 goes a long way toward sustaining our nonprofit newsroom.

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