During the COVID-19 pandemic, Allison Neitzel gained prominence as a self-proclaimed “misinformation” expert, attacking high-profile critics of establishment narratives regarding vaccines and other treatments. However, she recently issued an apology for spreading misinformation about several doctors. Neitzel specifically targeted doctors affiliated with the Frontline COVID-19 Critical Care Alliance (FLCCC), including Dr. Pierre Kory, Paul Marik, and Flavio A. Cadegiani.
Investigative journalist Paul D. Thacker blames the media for creating so-called “experts” like Neitzel, who lack credibility. According to Thacker, mainstream media outlets and science websites, including CNN, NBC, Mother Jones, MedPage Today, and Medscape, frequently cited Neitzel as a “misinformation expert.” However, it turns out that Neitzel is not a licensed physician, despite being referred to as one by these outlets. Thacker argues that the media creates these experts to push their own narratives rather than practicing unbiased journalism.
Neitzel's apology focused on correcting false claims she made about the FLCCC doctors. She admitted to spreading misinformation about their involvement in investigations by Brazilian authorities and falsely implying that they were associated with other organizations. Neitzel also acknowledged using terms like “fraud” and “grift” to criticize their positions and studies.
The FLCCC doctors have accepted Neitzel's apology and expressed their desire to move on from the situation. However, they emphasized that personal attacks have no place in serious scientific discussions. They believe in open and professional debates based on differing interpretations of data.
Neitzel's attacks were not limited to FLCCC doctors. Tracy Beth Høeg, a physician and epidemiologist, also became a target. Høeg criticized Neitzel for attacking her personally rather than addressing her work. Thacker argues that while Neitzel's individual attacks are significant, the media's creation of experts without credibility is the larger issue.
Despite Neitzel's apology, multiple media outlets continue to refer to her as a “physician.” Thacker points out that these outlets failed to verify Neitzel's credentials before quoting her as an expert. Wisconsin law defines a physician as someone possessing a medical degree and holding a license. Neitzel does not meet these criteria and is not listed in the National Provider Identifier Standard, which includes all licensed physicians in the U.S.
Thacker criticizes the media for elevating Neitzel's importance and argues that she was made to seem significant by the “misinformation-disinformation machinery.” He suggests that this machinery aligns closely with the policies of the Biden administration and aims to attack anyone who challenges Democratic Party policies or the administration.
