I recently read a statistic that 1 in 7 US workers may experience long-term symptoms, such as shortness of breath, fatigue, and "brain fog" post Covid-19. That equates to a little over 14%.
I have now worked on 3 long-term disability cases for clients who were experiencing the effects of long Covid and were denied benefits. These were skilled workers, 2 of which worked in the healthcare field. The thought of a registered nurse or physician returning to the workforce with symptoms that impair their cognitive function is a scary one. Will they mix up medication dosages? Forget to render an ordered treatment? Will they be ready and prepared in the event of a medical emergency?
Employers are keenly aware of safety concerns, particularly in the healthcare field. I have been surprised to read the basis for these denials and the fact that the essential functions of these jobs, including the need to provide patient care, are often not addressed. Physically, the client may be capable of performing the job, however; the mental demands of the work are often overlooked.
In these cases, the ability of the client to be a reliable and dependable employee are of paramount concern. Are they able to perform their job duties under pressure? Will they be capable of attending to work and remaining focused? A vocational assessment can be helpful to address the physical, mental, and behavioral requirements of their regular occupation, or any occupation, in light of their continued symptoms and limitations.
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