President Donald Trump is scheduled to return to Walter Reed National Military Medical Center on Friday, marking his second visit to the facility this year—an uncommon frequency for a sitting president and one that has already sparked renewed questions about his health.

The White House initially characterized the upcoming visit as Trump’s “yearly” physical examination, but that raised eyebrows since the president already completed what was described at the time as his “annual” exam just six months ago. Pressed for clarity, Trump later revised the explanation, saying this visit is simply a “routine semi-annual checkup” that he chooses to undergo as a preventative measure.

“I feel great—honestly, I think I’m in fantastic shape,” Trump told reporters in the Oval Office on Thursday while meeting with Finnish President Alexander Stubb. “But I like to stay ahead of things. It’s smart to get checked early. People should do that more often.”

Presidents typically undergo one comprehensive physical assessment each year, making Trump’s additional visit a noticeable departure from precedent. The move comes months after the White House acknowledged that Trump had been diagnosed with chronic venous insufficiency, a circulatory condition that can cause swelling in the legs. While the condition is common in older adults and generally manageable, photos showing visible swelling on Trump’s legs over the summer had triggered speculation about his medical condition.

At 79 years old, Trump is among the oldest people ever to occupy the presidency, and his health has been closely watched for years. Observers have also noted recurring bruising on his right hand, which he has occasionally concealed with heavy makeup. According to White House physician Dr. Sean Barbabella, the bruising is harmless and likely caused by a combination of daily aspirin use and frequent handshaking, both of which can contribute to mild discoloration beneath the skin.

Medical experts say that an additional checkup is not shocking given the president’s age. “It’s not unusual for anyone—especially older adults managing chronic conditions—to have multiple medical visits in a year,” said Dr. Megan Ranney, dean of the Yale School of Public Health. “The president has access to elite healthcare, and it’s clear he’s taking advantage of it.”

Routine medical care for the president is available inside the White House, but more advanced testing and diagnostic procedures are traditionally handled at Walter Reed in Bethesda, Maryland. The White House has not released specifics about what tests Trump will undergo during Friday’s visit. Officials only said that the president also plans to greet military personnel during the trip.

Trump is expected to return to Washington the same day, before departing for the Middle East on Sunday. According to the administration, he will visit the region to highlight what it calls the first stage of a peace agreement between Israel and Hamas.

“Everyone’s very happy about it,” Trump said Thursday. “It’s going to be a beautiful weekend.”

Throughout his political career, Trump has frequently highlighted his health as proof of his stamina and leadership ability, often boasting about his physical and cognitive fitness. He became especially known for referencing a cognitive test he says he “aced,” turning it into a campaign talking point while questioning the health of his political rivals, particularly former President Joe Biden.

However, Trump has also been selective in what he shares about his medical history. During the COVID-19 pandemic, his administration concealed the severity of his illness after he contracted the virus in 2020, ultimately requiring hospitalization at Walter Reed for several days.