The White House on Monday addressed concerns about President Joe Biden’s health following a New York Times report indicating that a Parkinson’s disease specialist had visited the White House at least eight times between August and March.
White House Press Secretary, Karine Jean-Pierre, clarified that President Biden is not being treated for Parkinson’s disease nor is he on medication for it.
She noted that Biden had consulted a neurologist three times as part of his regular physical examinations.
“Has the president been treated for Parkinson’s? No. Is he being treated for Parkinson’s? No, he’s not. Is he taking medication for Parkinson’s? No,” White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre stated during a briefing.
Reports have highlighted multiple visits by Dr. Kevin Cannard, a Parkinson’s disease specialist at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, to the White House this year.
These included a meeting with President Biden’s physician, Dr. Kevin O’Connor, in mid-January.
Although White House visitor logs confirm Cannard’s presence on several occasions, the specifics of these visits remain unclear.
White House spokesperson, Andrew Bates, explained that specialists from Walter Reed frequently visit to attend to the medical needs of military personnel stationed there.
Dr. O’Connor confirmed that Cannard, Biden’s neurological specialist for annual physicals, conducted routine neurological clinics at the White House Medical Unit before and after the pandemic, mainly for active-duty personnel supporting White House operations.
Despite speculation about Biden’s health, Dr. O’Connor released a statement about Cannard’s visits, emphasizing that Biden has only seen a neurologist during his annual physical exams and not for any specific health concerns.
Reports have indicated that Biden has been screened for various neurological conditions, including Parkinson’s, with all results showing negative findings.
In response to questions about Biden’s health, White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre reiterated that Biden has not been treated for Parkinson’s or any other neurological condition during his presidency, aside from regular check-ups.
She declined to name the neurologist involved, citing security concerns.
The inquiry into Biden’s health intensified after a debated performance in June 2023, where he faced criticism regarding his verbal acuity.
In subsequent interviews, Biden confirmed undergoing tests for cognitive capability and denied any health issues affecting his debate performance.
The White House’s handling of Biden’s health disclosures has sparked debate, with initial reports suggesting no post-debate medical check-up. This was later clarified by Biden himself in discussions with governors.
Despite concerns raised, official statements continue to emphasize Biden’s overall health and fitness for office.
As the Biden administration navigates ongoing questions about presidential health disclosures, the role of specialists like Cannard remains crucial in addressing public and media inquiries about Biden’s fitness for office.
