An expert in Parkinson’s disease from Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Dr. Kevin Cannard, has made multiple visits to the White House from last summer to this spring, according to official visitor logs. Dr. Cannard, a neurologist specializing in movement disorders, visited eight times within eight months, including at least once meeting with President Biden’s physician.

Dr. Cannard’s Background and Visits

Dr. Cannard’s expertise is well-documented, including his recent publication on Parkinson’s. The logs show his visits from July 2023 through March 2024. Visits beyond this period are not yet disclosed due to the White House’s voluntary release policy.

The purpose of Dr. Cannard’s visits remains unclear. His LinkedIn profile mentions his role in supporting the White House Medical Unit for over 12 years. He has also served as a neurology consultant to the White House Medical Unit and physician to the president from 2012 to 2022.

Past and Recent Visits

Records from the Obama administration, when Biden was vice president, show numerous visits by Dr. Cannard, but records from the Trump era are unavailable due to changes in disclosure policies.

Dr. Cannard has not responded to requests for comment, and the White House has not provided specific details on his recent visits. White House spokesman Andrew Bates mentioned that specialists from Walter Reed visit the White House to treat military personnel. He also noted that the president undergoes a neurological exam annually, which has shown no signs of Parkinson’s.

Recent Examination and Speculation

Dr. Cannard’s meetings included a session with Dr. Kevin O’Connor, the White House physician, on January 17, along with Dr. John Atwood, a cardiologist. This meeting preceded President Biden’s annual physical on February 28. Dr. O’Connor’s detailed report from this checkup found no evidence of Parkinson’s or other neurological disorders.

Despite these findings, speculation about President Biden’s health persists. Questions have been raised about symptoms observed in his public appearances, though neurologists emphasize that a diagnosis cannot be made without direct examination.

White House Response

Bates reiterated that there has been no need for further examination since February. President Biden, in interviews with ABC News and MSNBC, stated that the rigors of his duties serve as a constant test of his cognitive abilities.

Visitor logs indicate that Dr. Cannard’s initial visit in the Biden administration was on November 15, 2022, followed by eight more from July 28, 2023, often meeting with Megan Nasworthy, a White House liaison to Walter Reed. One visit appeared to be for a family tour of the White House.

Ongoing Health Discussions

Amid ongoing discussions about his health, President Biden has denied the need for an independent neurological and cognitive exam, asserting that his daily responsibilities effectively test his capabilities. He attributed his debate performance issues to a minor ailment and reiterated his ongoing activity and engagement.

This comprehensive look at Dr. Cannard’s visits and President Biden’s health assessments aims to provide clarity amidst ongoing public and media scrutiny.