Science Quickly The Doctor behind the Commander in Chief
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Oct 10, 2025 In this engaging discussion, Jeffrey Kuhlman, a former White House physician who served multiple presidents, reveals the complex world of presidential medical care. He shares fascinating anecdotes about treating leaders like Obama and balancing their health privacy with public transparency. Kuhlman emphasizes the importance of emergency preparedness and managing medical issues that might impact leadership. His insights shed light on the delicate nature of ensuring a president's health without turning it into a celebrity spectacle, providing a unique perspective on healthcare at the highest level.
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How He Became White House Doctor
- Jeffrey Kuhlman traced his path to White House medicine from hearing about Reagan's 1981 shooting as a high school senior and later serving in the Navy.
- He was assigned to the presidential helicopter squadron, took many foreign trips, earned top-secret clearance, and eventually cared for five-and-a-half presidents.
Memorable Moments With Presidents
- Kuhlman recounted caring for multiple presidents and first family members across administrations, including Clinton, George W. Bush, and Obama.
- He described personal memories like President Bush nicknaming him 'Leno' and sewing up President Obama's lacerated lip after a basketball injury.
White House Care Is Practical, Not Privileged
- Kuhlman emphasized White House care is not VIP fluff but private, secure, schedule-driven medicine focused on continuity.
- He advised maintaining strict medical objectivity: "no politics, no policy, just trusted medical advice."
