Biden-Harris Administration Issues Presidential Memorandum on Long COVID

The Biden-Harris Administration this week announced whole-of-government actions in response to millions of Americans’ experiences with prolonged illness from COVID-19, known as “Long COVID.” President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. issued a Presidential Memorandum directing the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) to coordinate a new effort across the federal government to develop and issue an interagency national research action plan on Long COVID. According to the Administration, the effort will advance progress in prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and provision of services and supports to individuals experiencing Long COVID and associated conditions.

The Presidential Memorandum additionally directs HHS to issue a report outlining services and supports across federal agencies to assist people experiencing Long COVID, individuals who are dealing with a COVID-related loss, and people who are experiencing mental health and substance use issues related to the pandemic. This report will specifically address the long-term effects of COVID-19 on high-risk communities and efforts to address disparities in access to services and supports.

Additional information is available here.