As the impact of Long COVID continues to affect millions of Americans, several U.S. senators have taken action to address the challenges faced by individuals seeking disability benefits due to this chronic health condition. Sens. Tim Kaine, Ed Markey, Tammy Duckworth, Bernie Sanders, Tina Smith, Angus King, and Richard Blumenthal have called on the Social Security Administration (SSA) to make the process of accessing disability benefits easier for those with Long COVID. This move has been welcomed by disability rights advocates and patients who have been struggling to navigate the system.
Long COVID, characterized by symptoms such as fatigue, brain fog, and shortness of breath following a COVID-19 infection, has been a significant health concern for many individuals. According to KFF’s analysis, about three in 10 American adults have experienced Long COVID at some point, with approximately 17 million people affected by March 2024. Recognizing the debilitating nature of these symptoms, the senators emphasized the need for the SSA to provide more transparency in the application process, track and publish data on Long COVID applications, and consider expanding the listing of impairments considered in disability benefit applications.
The economic impact of Long COVID on individuals and the workforce has also been a growing concern. Research has shown that COVID-19 infections and Long COVID have led to a decrease in the labor force by 500,000 people, with an average loss of $9,000 in earnings per individual. Additionally, more than 25% of individuals with Long COVID reported that their condition had affected their employment or work hours. This underscores the urgent need for support and resources for those grappling with Long COVID-related challenges.
Advocates like Marissa Ditkowsky from the National Partnership for Women & Families have highlighted the disproportionate impact of Long COVID on marginalized communities, including women, disabled individuals, and people of color. She emphasized the importance of not only addressing the needs of individuals with Long COVID but also implementing measures to prevent the spread of the virus and subsequent long-term health consequences.
In response to these challenges, senators have proposed various measures to improve the disability benefits application process for individuals with Long COVID. This includes restoring the treating physician rule, which gives greater weight to medical evidence from a patient’s long-term physician. Additionally, there is an opportunity for the Biden administration or the next administration to revamp how the SSA administers disability benefits, considering the aging population and the increasing demand for support.
In conclusion, the efforts of U.S. senators to advocate for improved access to disability benefits for individuals with Long COVID are crucial in addressing the ongoing challenges faced by those affected by this chronic health condition. By enhancing transparency, tracking data, and expanding the listing of impairments, the SSA can better support individuals with Long COVID in accessing the resources they need to manage their condition and maintain their quality of life.