72. How to Qualify for Disability Insurance with Long COVID

Applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) with Long COVID or ME/CFS is complex—and often discouraging. Many people are denied early and don’t understand why. In this episode, Dr Khan speaks with disability attorney Barbara Comerford, who has spent 30+ years helping clients navigate disability claims for complex, hard-to-document conditions. We break down:  How SSDI actually works (and who qualifies)   Why most claims are denied—and what that really means   The 5-step process Social Security uses to evaluate your case   What evidence matters for conditions like Long COVID   When to hire a lawyer—and how to strengthen your claim  This is a practical guide to help you understand the system and make more informed decisions. Chapter Markers (Streamlined) 00:00 Why SSDI matters for Long COVID  06:45 Who qualifies + how SSDI actually works  12:30 The 5-step disability evaluation process  25:00 Why claims get denied (and how to appeal)  40:30 Evidence, lawyers, and how to strengthen your case Resources Mentioned in This Episode Social Security Administration (SSA)  https://www.ssa.gov/ Check your earnings record and quarters of coverage to confirm SSDI eligibility.  Tri-State Disability Law Barbara Comerford’s law firm (SSDI and long-term disability cases) 866-444-6939 Workwell Foundation Guidance on cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET) and instructions for the NASA Lean Test (dysautonomia assessment)  Bateman Horne Center Educational resources on ME/CFS, Long COVID, and disability Project ECHO Webinar series referenced in the episode (including sessions on disability and chronic illness)  Key Tools & Concepts Referenced NASA Lean Test – low-cost way to document dysautonomia symptoms  CPET (Cardiopulmonary Exercise Testing) – objective measure of exertional intolerance  Neuropsychological Testing – documents cognitive impairment (brain fog, processing speed)  Symptom Journaling – daily tracking of function (sitting, standing, cognitive stamina) to support claims Support the show Sign up for the free Long Covid, MD newsletter for more science, validation, and strategies to regain your health.