Washington CNN —
Earlier this year, a leading Parkinson’s disease specialist met with President Joe Biden’s physician at the White House, although the details surrounding the meetings remain unclear.
Records show Dr. Kevin Cannard, a neurologist at the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, met with White House physician Dr. Kevin O’Connor in mid-January. According to White House visitor logs, Cannard has visited the White House three times this year: January 17 with O’Connor, January 26 with another staffer, and March 28. Overall, Cannard has visited the White House at least eight times over the past year, starting last August and ending with the March 28 visit. Only the January 17 visit specifically mentioned O’Connor.
In a letter released Monday night, O’Connor offered some context on Cannard’s visits amid ongoing speculation about Biden’s health. He clarified that President Biden has not seen a neurologist outside of his annual physical exams.
O’Connor wrote, “Prior to the pandemic and after it, Dr. Cannard has held regular Neurology Clinics at the White House Medical Clinic supporting the thousands of active-duty members serving there.” He noted that many military personnel experience neurological issues, and Cannard’s visits are part of general neurology support.
O’Connor described Cannard as the specialist who examined President Biden during his annual physicals, including the findings in the president’s physical reports. White House spokesperson Andrew Bates explained that specialists from Walter Reed regularly visit the White House to treat military personnel and that Biden’s neurologist visits are part of his annual physical exams.
Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre confirmed that Biden has seen a neurologist three times during his presidency for his physicals. However, she declined to provide names or details about Cannard’s visits, citing security reasons. Jean-Pierre reiterated that Biden has never been treated for Parkinson’s or taken any related medication.
Visitor logs do not specify whether Cannard’s visits were in relation to President Biden or other White House personnel. Biden’s latest health report, released by O’Connor, indicated that the president had been screened for various neurological conditions, including Parkinson’s, with negative results. Past health reports also reflect similar screenings.
O’Connor’s letter noted that a team of specialists reviewed Biden’s stiffened gait, concluding it was due to spinal wear and tear rather than a neurological condition. Examination results showed no signs of Parkinson’s, multiple sclerosis, or other neurological disorders.
News of Cannard’s visit comes amid scrutiny of Biden’s age, fitness, and mental acuity following his June 27 presidential debate performance against former President Donald Trump. Biden has faced questions regarding his ability to serve another term if reelected. In response, he noted that he is regularly seen by White House doctors and recently underwent tests following a difficult debate night, which came back clear.
The White House and the Biden campaign attributed Biden’s debate performance to his busy travel schedule and a cold. Initially, the White House stated Biden did not see a doctor after the debate but later confirmed he underwent a medical checkup and is fine.
This story has been updated with additional information.