Apr 19, 2021 - Articles, COVID-19, Long Term Disability Insurance by Seltzer & Associates
It has been more than a year since we first learned of COVID-19 and experienced an ever-changing and challenging world. Our medical professionals, doctors and surgeons have been rightfully hailed as heroes throughout the pandemic as they seek ways to treat symptoms and prevent the spread of COVID-19. At Seltzer & Associates, we honor and thank our medical professionals for all they do to protect our community health while putting themselves at risk for exposure to infectious diseases including COVID-19.
As time goes on we learn more about the effects on COVID-19 “long-haulers,” defined as people who experience lingering side effects from the disease, even after extensive treatment. Healthcare providers who contract COVID-19 and experience long-term effects may be out of work for months or longer as they deal with disabling conditions caused by COVID-19.
Since COVID-19 disability determinations and effects on long haulers are still relatively new areas of exploration in the disability insurance industry, seeking guidance from a Philadelphia long-term disability lawyer is an important step to take in your pursuit of disability insurance benefits. If you are a COVID-19 long hauler, schedule a consultation with the experienced legal team at Seltzer & Associates to learn about your options.
Understanding the Effects of COVID-19 on Long-Haulers
As the pandemic continues, researchers and other medical professionals are learning more about the long-term consequences of COVID-19. While there is still much to learn about the true long-term effects of COVID-19, it is known that COVID-19 victims can be disabled for months, quite possibly for years, and maybe, permanently. COVID-19 can cause severe and lasting damage to vital organs, debilitating chronic symptoms, and long-term effects.
Effects of COVID-19 that are likely to keep doctors out of work include:
- Chronic fatigue
- Aching muscles and joints
- Diminished focus and mental function, including memory loss
- Mental health concerns such as anxiety, depression and PTSD
- Addiction including drug and alcohol use
- Damage to the heart, liver, brain, lungs, and kidneys
- Seizures and stroke
Delays in Processing Disability Claims
Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, there have been many changes in the business world. Throughout the pandemic, businesses have had to adapt to a changing work environment designed to keep employees safe, which has included work from home protocols, reductions in staffing for safety, and unexpected occurrences of staffing shortage when COVID-19 outbreaks increase. All of these things cause disruptions to regular processes and expected timelines.
Though insurance companies try to maintain smooth business operations at all times, the changes in the business environment due to COVID-19 may inadvertently cause additional processing delays. Additionally, the increase in applications for long-term disability insurance benefits due to long-haulers being unable to work when faced with severe COVID-19 symptoms puts a strain on private, employer, and government insurance options.
Contact a Philadelphia COVID-19 Lawyer About Your Claim
COVID-19 long-haulers should not hesitate to reach out to a Philadelphia COVID-19 lawyer to help keep their claim for long-term disability insurance benefits on track. Contact Seltzer & Associates for your free consultation to discuss your claim for disability insurance benefits today.