Overview
Long COVID—also referred to as Post-Acute Sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 (PASC)—describes new, returning, or persistent symptoms that continue for weeks to months following acute COVID-19 infection. Symptoms frequently involve multiple organ systems and may substantially impair function, cognition, participation and quality of life. AAPM&R has led national, multidisciplinary efforts to establish evidence-informed, rehabilitation-focused clinical guidance to support physiatrists and interdisciplinary care teams.
National Data and Trends
Long COVID remains a significant and ongoing public health issue in the United States. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 6.9–7.2% of U.S. adults—representing an estimated 17–18 million people—are currently experiencing Long COVID. Rates have remained relatively stable since 2023, indicating a persistent burden rather than a declining condition.
CDC surveillance efforts continue through the National Health Interview Survey (NHIS), Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS), and administrative and electronic health record data to monitor prevalence, demographic trends and state-level variation. Updated national and state estimates are expected throughout 2026.
AAPM&R Clinical Guidance on Long COVID / PASC
In 2021, AAPM&R convened the Multi-Disciplinary PASC Collaborative, bringing together physiatrists and experts across medical specialties, rehabilitation disciplines, public health and patient advocacy. Building on early symptom-specific consensus statements, the Collaborative published a comprehensive Compendium Statement in PM&R: The Journal of Injury, Function, and Rehabilitation in April 2025. This compendium statementprovides a holistic, function-oriented framework for first-line assessment and longitudinal management of adults with Long COVID, particularly in settings where subspecialty care may be limited. View the full list of collaborative participants: LINK
Key Features of the Guidance
• Holistic assessment addressing physical, cognitive, psychological, and social domains
• Recognition that symptoms frequently co-occur rather than present in isolation
• Rehabilitation-focused management strategies emphasizing function, participation, and quality of life
• Integration of health equity, disability, and work participation considerations
• Summary of emerging evidence and areas of ongoing investigation
Guidance by Symptom Domain
To view all Long COVID Guidance by symptom domain, click
here.
Tools and Resources
AAPM&R maintains a centralized collection of clinical tools, implementation resources, and curated external references to support care for patients with Long COVID / PASC. These resources are designed to complement the clinical guidance outlined on this page.
Advocacy and National Leadership
AAPM&R plays a leading role in national advocacy to strengthen health system readiness for Long COVID. Through partnerships with the Council of Medical Specialty Societies (CMSS), federal agencies and patient organizations, AAPM&R supports clinician education, multidisciplinary models of care and recognition of Long COVID as a disabling condition when appropriate. Long COVID/PASC
How to Use This Guidance
AAPM&R Long COVID / PASC guidance is intended to inform—not replace—clinical judgment. Clinicians should individualize care based on patient goals, symptom patterns, comorbidities and available resources. Guidance will continue to be updated as evidence evolves.
Key Data Sources and Citations
• CDC Long COVID Surveillance: https://www.cdc.gov/long-covid/php/surveillance
• National Health Interview Survey (NHIS): https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/nhis
• Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS): https://www.cdc.gov/brfss
• Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF) Long COVID Analysis: https://www.kff.org/covid-19