The ongoing impact of the COVID-19 pandemic extends far beyond the acute infection phase. A recent study published in PLoS One sheds light on the significant and persistent decline in health-related quality of life (HRQoL) among survivors with post-COVID conditions in the United States. This research has crucial implications, particularly when considering the potential for long-term disability among workers who contracted the virus.

Key Takeaways from the Study:

Substantial HRQoL Reduction: The study, titled "The health-related quality of life among survivors with post-COVID conditions in the United States," reveals a notable decrease in overall HRQoL among individuals experiencing post-COVID conditions. This encompasses various aspects of well-being, including physical, mental, and social health.
Persistent Impact: The findings underscore that the effects of COVID-19 can linger for an extended period, significantly impacting daily functioning and overall life satisfaction for survivors.
Implications for Long-Term Disability: The diminished HRQoL reported in the study raises serious concerns about the long-term disability of workers who have contracted COVID-19. Persistent symptoms and reduced functional capacity can hinder their ability to return to work or maintain employment.

The Workers' Compensation Perspective:

The National Council on Compensation Insurance (NCCI) Phase II Multibureau Collaboration report on COVID-19 and workers' compensation further emphasizes the relevance of these findings. As highlighted in their report, understanding the long-term consequences of COVID-19 is crucial for the workers' compensation system. The potential for "Long COVID" to result in prolonged disability necessitates careful consideration of coverage, benefits, and return-to-work strategies.

The PLoS One study provides valuable data that aligns with the concerns raised in the NCCI report. The documented reduction in HRQoL among post-COVID survivors offers evidence supporting the potential for long-term functional limitations that could qualify as disabilities under workers' compensation frameworks. This underscores the need for continued research, comprehensive assessment protocols, and supportive policies to address the needs of workers experiencing persistent health issues following COVID-19 infection.

In conclusion, the study's findings paint a concerning picture of the enduring impact of post-COVID conditions on survivors' quality of life. When viewed through the lens of workers' compensation, as informed by the NCCI's collaborative efforts, the implications for long-term disability are significant and warrant ongoing attention and proactive solutions.

Hejazian SS, Vemuri A, Sadr AV, Shahjouei S, Bahrami S, Shouhao Z, et al. (2025) The health-related quality of life among survivors with post-COVID conditions in the United States. PLoS One 20(5): e0320721. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0320721

Related Resources:

Workers’ Compensation Benefits for Long COVID

Long Covid: The Answers

COVID-19 and Workers Compensation-Phase II of the Multibreau Collaboration NCCI 11/15/2021

Recommended Citation: Gelman, Jon, Lingering Shadow: COVID Long-Term Disability Risks for Workers, www.gelmans.com (05/10/2025) https://workers-compensation.blogspot.com/2025/05/lingering-shadow-covid-long-term.html

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*Jon L. Gelman of Wayne, NJ, is the author of NJ Workers' Compensation Law (West-Thomson-Reuters) and co-author of the national treatise Modern Workers' Compensation Law (West-Thomson-Reuters). For over five decades, the Law Offices of Jon Gelman 1.973.696.7900
jon@gelmans.com has represented injured workers and their families who have suffered occupational illnesses and diseases.