Dr. Drew Pinsky, the chief patient officer at the Wellness Company, stated on Thursday that the press continues to get it wrong when reporting on President Donald Trump’s health.
“I only wish I could have his health at 80,” Pinsky told Finnerty. “It’s extraordinary. I pray to God I am granted that kind of health at that age.”
Pinsky was responding to recent reports confirming the president underwent a CT scan at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, not an MRI. Trump had previously described the test as an MRI, prompting speculation about his health—including media claims he might have suffered a stroke.
A prior Newsmax report clarified the imaging procedure was a CT scan, citing individuals familiar with the matter. Trump acknowledged in interviews that the scan “was less than that.” He said it was “a scan,” not an MRI.
Pinsky criticized The Wall Street Journal’s depiction of the CT scan as “ignorant,” emphasizing it is used for heart calcium testing. “A level of ignorance is displayed here that is so typical of the press,” Pinsky said. “It’s full of nuance and ignorance. It’s disgusting.”
He explained a coronary calcium score—conducted with a CT scanner—measures calcium buildup in heart arteries. If present, it typically requires treatment with rosuvastatin and aspirin. Pinsky stated Trump has a calcium score of 2 to 400, which explains his increased aspirin use. “Trump taking aspirin is nothing,” he said. “It reduces the risk of stroke and heart disease.”
Navy Capt. Sean Barbabella, Trump’s physician, confirmed in a written statement that the president received a CT scan as part of his routine health evaluation. Barbabella noted the medical team initially discussed performing either an MRI or CT scan but opted for the CT scan to assess cardiovascular and abdominal health.
“The purpose of this imaging is preventative,” Barbabella said. “To identify issues early, confirm overall health, and ensure long-term vitality.” He has repeatedly stated Trump remains in excellent physical and mental health.
