Double Duty

After reading an article about Haiti, I was surprised to learn that there are journalists over there serving the function of both doctor and reporter. They are qualified to do both. They have been trained as doctors and are now reporting on the terrible conditions that the Haitian people are facing.

These reporters are treating people on camera and reporting about the health conditions. The journalists are "actively participating in the story." There is argument over whether that is right. Journalists are mere observers and report on what they see. They are not supposed to get involved in the story. So is it ethical that these people should play double duty, acting as both reporter and doctor? Everyone wants to help but can getting so involved within the story affect the reporting?