It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Dr. Max Gomez, the revered medical correspondent for CBS New York, who succumbed to a prolonged illness at the age of 72.
Affectionately known as “Dr. Max” by millions of viewers, he emerged as a trusted source of information during the challenging times of the pandemic, providing invaluable guidance and insights to the people of New York and beyond.
Dr. Max Gomez’s illustrious career at WCBS-TV spanned several decades. He initially served as a medical reporter and health editor from 1994 to 1997 before returning to the network as the chief medical correspondent in June 2007. During his tenure, he achieved numerous accolades, including New York Emmy Awards, Philadelphia Emmys, and a UPI honor for Best Documentary, recognizing his outstanding report on AIDS. His reporting on health issues following the tragic events of 9/11 earned him the Excellence in a Time of Crisis Award from the NYC Health Department.
CBS News paid tribute to the beloved medical correspondent, stating, “Dr. Gomez was deeply loved and respected in our newsroom, by medical professionals he worked with, patients who shared their stories with him, and our viewers.” His colleagues fondly remember him as their go-to medical consultant, always ready to offer assistance with genuine concern and an unwavering commitment to go the extra mile. Dr. Gomez’s academic background in health and science, combined with his relatable broadcasting style, allowed him to establish a strong and lasting presence in the world of journalism.
Dr. Gomez’s medical reporting showcased remarkable depth, and he demonstrated exceptional courage by candidly sharing his own medical challenges with his television family. Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, he remained a steady voice of reason, guiding viewers through the complexities of the crisis.
Beyond CBS, Dr. Max Gomez contributed to Fox 5 New York and NBC 4 New York, leaving an indelible mark on each network. Colleagues and anchors alike remember him as an integral part of their teams, someone who was instantly recognized as CBS 2’s Dr. Max. His ability to connect with viewers and convey complex medical information in an accessible manner set him apart.
In addition to his distinguished career in medical reporting, Dr. Gomez co-authored three books on health and science and served on various advisory boards, including the national board of directors for the American Heart Association. He mentored journalism students, particularly those with an interest in medical journalism, and offered guidance to medical students and physicians looking to transition into this field.
Dr. Max Gomez was born in Cuba and later moved to Miami with his family. After graduating cum laude from Princeton University and earning a Ph.D. from the Wake Forest University School of Medicine, he became a National Institutes of Health postdoctoral fellow at Rockefeller University in New York City.
Colleagues describe him as a well-rounded individual who could engage in conversations on a myriad of topics, from sports to travel and current events. He was a trusted friend, advisor, and confidant to all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Dr. Max Gomez leaves behind a legacy of excellence in medical journalism, and he will be deeply missed by his children, Max Gomez IV and Katie Gomez, as well as countless others whose lives he touched through his work and kindness.