This morning Chief Health and Medical Editor Dr. Richard Besser announced Dr. Jennifer Ashton is joining the ABC News Medical Unit.

Please join me in welcoming Dr. Jennifer Ashton to the ABC News Medical Unit. As Senior Medical Contributor she'll help report on major health and wellness issues deeply important to our audience.

Medicine has always been part of Dr. Ashton's life - her family includes six physicians and a nurse. Dr. Ashton attended Columbia College, Columbia University as an undergraduate and went on to receive her medical degree from Columbia University, College of Physicians and Surgeons.

She's a board-certified Ob-Gyn, best-selling author and women's health expert well versed in primary care issues facing people at every stage of life.

Plus, she's an avid tri-athlete who often races with her two teenage children.

Dr. Ashton has been a popular medical expert on many television programs. You've likely seen firsthand her ability to explain clearly complex medical topics - from c-sections to psychiatry and mammograms - and relate to viewers.

We are truly fortunate to add her thoughtful perspective and expertise to the talented medical unit at ABC News.

Rich