In a recent government briefing, the White House faced intense scrutiny regarding President Biden's health, particularly following conflicting statements about his medical evaluations. Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre was questioned about the president's health checks after a debate, where she initially stated that he had not undergone any medical examinations. However, she later clarified that he had a brief verbal check-in with his medical team shortly thereafter.
Jean-Pierre emphasized that the president regularly engages in verbal check-ins with his doctor, which occur a few times a week, contrasting this with the experiences of many Americans who may only see their doctors once or twice a year. She reiterated that while the president did not have a formal medical exam, he maintains ongoing communication with his healthcare team.
The briefing also addressed reports of a neurologist visiting the White House multiple times, with journalists seeking confirmation on whether these visits were related to the president's health. Jean-Pierre confirmed that the president has seen a neurologist three times during his presidency as part of his annual physicals, but she refrained from confirming any specific visits or the purpose of the neurologist's presence, citing privacy and security concerns.
When pressed about potential diagnoses, including Parkinson's disease, Jean-Pierre firmly stated that the president is not being treated for or taking medication related to Parkinson's. She reiterated that the most recent neurological examination showed no signs of serious conditions such as stroke or multiple sclerosis.
The briefing highlighted the ongoing challenges the administration faces in communicating about the president's health, particularly in light of public concern and media scrutiny. Jean-Pierre's responses aimed to clarify the president's health status while maintaining the confidentiality of medical personnel involved in his care.