White House recently addressed escalating concerns surrounding President Joe Biden’s health, particularly regarding the involvement of neurologist Dr. Kevin Cannard. This clarification followed a contentious exchange between Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre and journalists, where she emphasized that Biden’s consultations with neurologists were limited to his annual physicals.
Reports from The Guardian on Tuesday, July 9, 2024, highlighted that Dr. Cannard, a specialist in movement disorders, had visited the White House eight times in the past eight months. In response, White House physician Dr. Kevin O’Connor provided context in an evening letter, detailing Dr. Cannard’s long-standing role within the White House medical unit.
“Seeing patients at the White House is something that Dr. Cannard has been doing for a dozen years,” O’Connor wrote. “Dr. Cannard was chosen for this responsibility not because he is a movement disorder specialist, but because he is a highly trained and highly regarded neurologist here at Walter Reed and across the Military Health System, with a very wide expertise which makes him flexible to see a variety of patients and problems.”
The White House underscored that Dr. Cannard’s visits have been routine since 2012, reflecting his extensive experience and expertise rather than any specific concerns about President Biden’s health. O’Connor emphasized that Dr. Cannard’s involvement aligns with the White House’s approach to maintaining robust medical oversight for its personnel.
Dr. Cannard has overseen President Biden’s annual physicals since he took office. According to O’Connor, Biden’s last medical examination in February revealed no signs of serious neurological disorders. “Biden’s last medical examination in February had not shown any cerebellar or other central neurological disorder, such as stroke, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s or ascending lateral sclerosis, nor are there any signs of cervical myelopathy,” O’Connor wrote.
This statement came amid growing speculation about the President’s cognitive health following a debate with former President Donald Trump in Atlanta, where Biden appeared confused at times. O’Connor’s letter, released with the permission of both Biden and Cannard, aimed to provide transparency and reassurance about the President’s neurological health.
The issue gained traction after Jean-Pierre’s press briefing, where she asked reporters for “respect” and refrained from confirming Dr. Cannard’s name despite it being widely reported. She defended the President’s health, stating, “The president has seen a neurologist three times,” and confirmed that there were no findings indicative of any central neurological disorders.
Jean-Pierre also addressed concerns regarding Biden’s treatment, asserting that he is not being treated for or taking medication for Parkinson’s disease. “There are thousands of military personnel that come to the White House, and they are under the care of the medical unit,” she added, emphasizing the comprehensive care provided to all White House personnel.
The White House’s clarification aims to dispel doubts about Biden’s cognitive abilities and reaffirm the routine nature of Dr. Cannard’s visits, highlighting his critical role in the health management of the President and other White House staff.
