Following a lively exchange at a press conference, President Biden’s physician, Dr. Kevin O’Connor, clarified on Tuesday that the president had not consulted a neurologist outside of his routine annual check-ups.
This clarification came after reports surfaced about a Parkinson’s specialist frequently visiting the White House. Dr. O’Connor addressed these rumors in a letter, emphasizing that Dr. Cannard, a neurological specialist, has been involved in Biden’s yearly physical examinations.
Dr. O’Connor highlighted that Dr. Cannard, who has been seeing patients at the White House for over a decade, was not specifically chosen for his expertise in movement disorders. The statement followed a press conference where journalists questioned White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre about the specialist’s visits.
The New York Times revealed that official visitor logs showed Dr. Cannard had visited the White House eight times since last summer. Jean-Pierre declined to elaborate on the reasons behind these frequent visits.
According to Dr. O’Connor, the findings from Dr. Cannard’s examinations have been transparently shared with the public, with the most recent health report released at the end of February. The report indicated no signs of strokes or Parkinson’s disease, noting that Biden displayed “no tremor, either at rest or with activity.”
Amid growing scrutiny over his age and mental fitness, Biden, 81, has faced questions about his suitability as the Democratic candidate for the upcoming election. Despite these concerns, Biden has dismissed doubts and refused to undergo a cognitive health test.
The release of Dr. O’Connor’s letter appears to be an effort to counter any rumors of Parkinson’s disease. Jean-Pierre reaffirmed at the press briefing that the president is not being treated for such a condition.
