Caring for presidents: A history of evolving roles, secrecy & controversy

Presidential physicians have evolved from private practitioners to military staff, balancing care and public transparency. Early doctors treated George Washington and William Henry Harrison, who died in office. Military physicians assumed responsibility after Abraham Lincoln’s death. Poor medical practices contributed to President James Garfield’s death. The White House medical office was established by Presley Rixey and enhanced by Joel Boone for routine care. The modern White House Medical Unit provides comprehensive care. Physicians have historically concealed presidential health issues, including those of Chester A. Arthur, Grover Cleveland, Woodrow Wilson, Franklin D. Roosevelt, and John F. Kennedy. The 25th Amendment added the responsibility of assessing presidential incapacity. Recent health revelations highlight the ongoing challenges of presidential medical care and transparency.