During the 1980s Gao became known for her investigative pieces on economic issues and her interviews with many of the major architects of reform. Her writings and involvement in the 1989 pro-democracy movement and her willingness to jeopardize her safety and career in the service of freedom, democracy and human rights significantly contributed to the free press movement.
Gao was released on medical parole in March 1999, but the terms of her release restrict her from speaking with reporters. Her son has indicated that she is still in poor health and is seeking treatment for kidney ailments and high blood pressure before deciding whether she will continue her journalism career.