In April 2022, the Biden Administration issued a memorandum directing federal agencies to examine the long-term effects of COVID-19, including Long COVID, to advance research, improve care, and support those affected. This memorandum established the Office of Long COVID Research and Practice and called for a coordinated, whole-of-government approach to address the health, economic, and societal impacts of Long COVID.

Now, it’s time to act. The insights and frameworks developed under this directive must lead to meaningful action for the tens of millions living with Long COVID. This includes implementing solutions that prioritize patient care, equitable resource distribution, workplace accommodations, and advancements in treatment. Promises must turn into real progress.

Public health has never been more at risk. Communities affected by neglected, complex, and chronic conditions—including Long COVID and other Infection-Associated Chronic Conditions (IACCs)—must band together to protect public health, preserve progress, and secure a better future.

We are calling on President Biden to take the following actions before leaving office:

Declare Long COVID a Public Health Emergency (PHE)

• A PHE declaration would grant the federal government additional powers, including increased funding, streamlined healthcare access, and enhanced emergency response coordination.
• It would elevate Long COVID as a national priority and enable the use of the Defense Production Act (DPA) to accelerate progress on treatments, diagnostics, and protective equipment.

Leverage the Defense Production Act (DPA)

• Scale up production of diagnostic tools, treatments, and N95 masks.
• Support the development of rehabilitation technologies and strengthen the healthcare supply chain amid threats from COVID-19, Mpox, and H5N1.

Direct Federal Agencies to Fund Long COVID Initiatives

• Reallocate unused COVID-19 relief funds to programs addressing Long COVID.
• Establish a dedicated Long COVID Research and Care Fund within HHS to secure sustained funding for research.
• Require health agencies to develop clinician training programs and public education campaigns on Long COVID prevention, risks, and treatment.

Direct SSA to Prioritize Long COVID in Disability Listings

• Expedite the SSA review of Long COVID for inclusion in the Listing of Impairments.
• Streamline disability benefits for Long COVID patients and enforce workplace protections for affected individuals.

Reinstate, Expand, and Fund the “Test to Treat” Program

• Ensure immediate access to testing and antiviral treatments to reduce severe outcomes and the risk of Long COVID.
• Expand the program to include follow-up studies evaluating recovery outcomes and treatment efficacy.

By taking these steps, President Biden can ensure the findings of the 2023 memorandum are translated into actionable policies that address the urgent needs of those living with Long COVID.

Act now! Send your letter to demand executive action before it’s too late.