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Health, Wellbeing and Belonging

Long COVID In The Workplace

returning to work

Depending on the nature and severity of your symptoms, you may not be able to return to work in the same capacity as you once did. It’s important to communicate openly with your manager about your situation and to work together to create a return-to-work plan that allows you to manage your workload without compromising your recovery.

According to the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), Long COVID may qualify as a disability under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Vanderbilt employees who believe they have a disability should contact their department supervisor or the Equal Opportunity and Access Office.

  • Accommodations are made on a case-by-case basis depending on the specific limitations an employee has as well as their job duties and work environment. The U.S. Department of Labor has compiled a list of potential Long COVID accommodations as a starting point for exploring accommodation ideas.

 

How can managers help?

Managers play a crucial role in supporting employees returning to work with Long COVID. By implementing the following strategies, managers can create a positive and inclusive work environment that promotes the employee’s health and productivity.

  • Educate yourself and team members about Long COVID and how it may affect the employee’s work performance and needs.
  • Foster an inclusive workplace culture where employees feel comfortable discussing their health conditions and seeking support.
  • Encourage the employee to prioritize their health and well-being by promoting a healthy work-life balance.
  • Conduct regular check-ins with the employee to discuss their progress and challenges. Be willing to make adjustments to accommodations as needed based on the employee’s evolving needs and feedback.

 

guidance for colleagues

When a coworker returns to work after experiencing long COVID, it’s important for colleagues to be supportive, understanding, and respectful of their situation. Here are some ways colleagues can provide assistance and support:

  • Educate yourself about Long COVID and it’s potential impact on your coworker.
  • Offer empathy, support, and encouragement without being intrusive. Simple gestures like welcoming them back warmly and acknowledging their resilience and determination in overcoming their health challenges can make a big difference.
  • Respect any boundaries or requests for accommodations your coworker may have communicated to you or the team.
  • Be patient and understanding if they need to take breaks or adjust their workload temporarily to accommodate their health needs.
  • Offer assistance if they seem overwhelmed or if you notice they are struggling with certain tasks.
  • Celebrate their progress and achievements, no matter how small, and show appreciation for their contributions to the team.